I remember this essay well. And my comment is unchanged from the one I made back then. You are one of the finest lyrical writers on Substack. You were then and you remain so. This essay is proof of that.
You know, Jason, as I look at your archives (as everyone should do) I am struck by the breadth of your thinking. Just about every idea I've ever thought of, you thought of first! So far as I can tell, you're in the very top tier of chroniclers of the Anthropocene. No reply necessary 😉
Good people. We all can make a difference if we make an effort. Wondering what you think of the recent decision by the official Geological Academic overlords deciding not to label this era as Anthropocene? With all the solid scientific evidence - seems very political as in serving some special interests $ behind the scenes. Regardless - many scientists and writers will continue to use the term and speak truth to power.
Thanks, Christopher. I had a quick note about the stratigraphers' decision recently (in the news section) but am planning on writing more. For now I'm assuming it wasn't about moneyed interests, but rather the habit of these very cautious scientists who feel obligated to their analysis of deep time and its demarcations. The reporting I've seen so far noted that no one really debated the scale of human impact, and the argument was more about the dating of the Anthropocene starting point, with several geologists uncomfortable with the committee's decision to limit it to the mid-20th century. And as you say here, the term is here to stay in other areas of culture. I'm sure the geologists will revisit it when the waves are lapping at their door.
What a gem of a newsletter, thank you. "determined to let their noticing upend their lives. That’s the radical step not enough of us take, crossing the line from empathy to ethics, and never retreating." Phew that is a call to self reflection and action. I can't wait to be able to watch the full documentary, thank you for bringing it to my attention. xo
Thank you for introducing me to All That Breathes. I watched the trailer. Now I will search for a way to watch in its entirety. I know the words thank you do not even touch on the impact this documentary will have on me. Grateful.
Thank you, Lor. You won't be disappointed by All That Breathes.
I was pretty sure I'd watched Winged Migration, but just checked the trailer and now am not sure that I did. It looks well worth watching again, at any rate. Thank you for the recommendation. I'll put it on the list.
I remember this essay well. And my comment is unchanged from the one I made back then. You are one of the finest lyrical writers on Substack. You were then and you remain so. This essay is proof of that.
Thank you, Michael, for such deep kindness. I'm always happy to see you and your thoughtful support in the comments here. It helps keep me motivated.
You know, Jason, as I look at your archives (as everyone should do) I am struck by the breadth of your thinking. Just about every idea I've ever thought of, you thought of first! So far as I can tell, you're in the very top tier of chroniclers of the Anthropocene. No reply necessary 😉
Good people. We all can make a difference if we make an effort. Wondering what you think of the recent decision by the official Geological Academic overlords deciding not to label this era as Anthropocene? With all the solid scientific evidence - seems very political as in serving some special interests $ behind the scenes. Regardless - many scientists and writers will continue to use the term and speak truth to power.
Thanks, Christopher. I had a quick note about the stratigraphers' decision recently (in the news section) but am planning on writing more. For now I'm assuming it wasn't about moneyed interests, but rather the habit of these very cautious scientists who feel obligated to their analysis of deep time and its demarcations. The reporting I've seen so far noted that no one really debated the scale of human impact, and the argument was more about the dating of the Anthropocene starting point, with several geologists uncomfortable with the committee's decision to limit it to the mid-20th century. And as you say here, the term is here to stay in other areas of culture. I'm sure the geologists will revisit it when the waves are lapping at their door.
What a gem of a newsletter, thank you. "determined to let their noticing upend their lives. That’s the radical step not enough of us take, crossing the line from empathy to ethics, and never retreating." Phew that is a call to self reflection and action. I can't wait to be able to watch the full documentary, thank you for bringing it to my attention. xo
Such kind words, Gillian. Thank you. I'm sure you'll appreciate the doc; it's amazing.
Thank you for introducing me to All That Breathes. I watched the trailer. Now I will search for a way to watch in its entirety. I know the words thank you do not even touch on the impact this documentary will have on me. Grateful.
If you haven’t watched
Winged Migration (2001), I highly recommend it.
Thank you, Lor. You won't be disappointed by All That Breathes.
I was pretty sure I'd watched Winged Migration, but just checked the trailer and now am not sure that I did. It looks well worth watching again, at any rate. Thank you for the recommendation. I'll put it on the list.