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The Control of Nature
288 pages, 1990
Natural phenomena come in many degrees of difficulty. Earthquakes and hurricanes are among the most powerful forces of nature, but they are also easily forecast and tracked. The much more delicate problem, when it comes to predicting their behavior, is that of a small stream or pond. For example, how can one control the rise or fall of a lake in the desert? Or predict when a rainstorm will arrive, thousands of miles away? The Control of Nature is John McPhee's bestselling account of places where people are locked in combat with nature. Taking us deep into these contested territories, McPhee details the strategies and tactics through which people attempt to control nature. Most striking is his depiction of the main contestants: nature in complex and awesome guises, and those attempting to wrest control from her—stubborn, sometimes foolhardy and more often ingenious.
The Control of Nature by John McPhee shows us the immense power of nature. He explores how humans often underestimate this power, leading to disastrous consequences. It's a reminder to respect and understand the natural world around us.
McPhee takes us on a journey to see how humans have tried to control nature. From the Mississippi River to the volcanic eruptions in Iceland, he shows us the lengths we go to in our attempts to tame the wild. It's a fascinating look into human determination and ingenuity.
The book also highlights the consequences of our attempts to control nature. McPhee shows us that our actions often lead to unforeseen problems, sometimes making the situation worse. It's a call to think carefully about our actions and their potential impact on the environment.
John McPhee's The Control of Nature also explores the delicate balance of nature. He shows us how even small changes can have a big impact, disrupting ecosystems and causing havoc. It's a reminder of the importance of maintaining this balance for the health of our planet.
Finally, The Control of Nature is a call to action for greater environmental awareness. McPhee encourages us to research and understand the natural world, to see the effects of our actions, and to find ways to live in harmony with nature. It's a book that will inspire you to look at the world around you in a new light.
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John McPhee's 'The Control of Nature' is a masterpiece of narrative nonfiction, detailing the human struggle against the forces of nature.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderMcPhee's 'The Control of Nature' is a testament to the power of well-researched, beautifully written nonfiction.
David Remnick - Journalist, Editor'The Control of Nature' is a profound exploration of the human relationship with the natural world, penned by the masterful John McPhee.
Robert Macfarlane - Nature Writer