'Nature doesn’t promise you anything - an after life, rewards for good behaviour, protection from enemies, wealth, happiness, progeny, all the things that humans desire and pray for. No, nature does not promise any of these things. Nature is a reward in itself.’
And with that fitting introduction, Ruskin Bond takes you into his personal paradise. He talks about his formative years and the influence that nature has had in shaping his thoughts and work. The book is interesting in bits and parts.
I enjoyed his memories of a childhood spent at his grandfather’s house in Dehra. Building a makeshift platform on the banyan tree…curling up with dog-eared books…and stealthily observing the antics of animal life in the overgrown garden below; all struck a nostalgic chord with me.
The sojourn in the Himalayas was also engrossing. He captures the stark beauty of the unforgiving terrain with all the fondness of a native. Especially poignant is the account of The Leopard. Read it and feel the elemental connection.
I revelled in the chapter on ‘Rains’…more so because I read the book during the monsoon. I have always had a specialty affinity for this particular season and over the years have made quite a few jottings of my own. Some of his notes mirrored mine and all I wanted to do was snuggle up and read on...and on.
On the downside…I didn’t much take to the tedious descriptions of plant-life. It was too reminiscent of a college-lecture to hold my interest.
While the book didn’t match the wit and sheer charm of 'My Family and Other Animals', it does resonate with all who have spent many a hazy summer day in their native places…soaking in nature and never ever realising the treasures surrounding them.
