Ruth Allen, a geologist who later became a psychotherapist, paints a detailed portrayal of the Peak District’s topography and blends in metaphorical interpretations in her book titled ‘Weathering’. The book intricately intertwines her distinctive interests – human beings and rocks, by drawing intriguing parallels.
Like humans, landscapes too have layers of complexity that are formed through weathering, erosion and seismic events, Allen explains. Not every destruction is truly destructive, sometimes, it gives birth to a novel perspective, true to the evolution of landscapes. She underlines the significance of engaging with nature, using it as a conduit for rehabilitation and self-conciousness.
Her accounts of immersing people in nature and observing their responses are captivating. From a man’s stress visibly evaporating in a repurposed quarry’s confines, to a group of women starting a unique dialogue with rocky formations during a stroll in the Peak District – each account invokes introspection “How does your body react in this context? How do you prefer to move? What does becoming one with the rock imply for you?”
An engrossing narrative of spelunking further reflects the intricate mental and physical reactions triggered by the claustrophobic environment. Audience will find their connection with the book directly proportional to their willingness to believe in its underlying notion – the comparison between weathering of humans and nature. While there are harmonious parallels, certain areas do stretch the metaphoric boundary a bit.
However, the benefits of spending time in nature and understanding deep time is unquestionable to our species’ growth. Allen’s ‘Weathering’ offers a thought-provoking and well-reasoned read to those who are inclined to delve deeper into our existence within the un-idealised natural world.