Great Possessions By: David Grayson (1870-1946)
Great Possessions by David Grayson is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a profound journey of self-discovery and appreciation for the simple joys in life. In this beautifully written narrative, Grayson captures the essence of rural living and the transformative power of nature through his experiences in the countryside. The book delves into Grayson's decision to leave the bustling city life behind and embrace a quieter existence in the countryside. His vivid descriptions of the natural landscapes he encounters, from majestic mountains to serene meadows, evoke a sense of peace and tranquility that radiates from the pages. The author's deep connection with nature is palpable, making readers yearn for a similar connection in their own lives. Grayson's reflections on the concept of possession are a central theme throughout the book. He encourages readers to question the notion of possessing material wealth and instead focuses on the importance of intangible riches like personal growth, friendships, and memories. This thought-provoking exploration of the true value of possessions is a refreshing perspective in a world often consumed by materialism. Moreover, Great Possessions is much more than a nature memoir. It also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the human spirit and the bonds that tie us together. Grayson's encounters with fellow villagers, each with their unique stories and struggles, highlight the power of human connection and empathy. The author's writing style is captivating, with poetic prose that flows effortlessly. His ability to capture even the simplest moments and infuse them with depth and significance is remarkable. The descriptive imagery and introspective musings create a reading experience that is both thought-provoking and emotionally rich. One minor drawback of the book is that at times, the narrative can seem slightly muddled as Grayson weaves between personal anecdotes, philosophical reflections, and observations of nature. While each individual thread is compelling, it occasionally feels as though the book lacks a cohesive structure. Despite this minor flaw, Great Possessions is a profound and uplifting read that offers inspiration and insight to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of what truly matters in life. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures, embrace nature's beauty, and nurture the connections that enrich our lives. Grayson's eloquent prose and introspective observations make this memoir a true gem for both nature lovers and those on a quest for personal growth. First Page: GREAT POSSESSIONS By David Grayson CHAPTER I THE WELL FLAVOURED EARTH "Sweet as Eden is the air And Eden sweet the ray. No Paradise is lost for them Who foot by branching root and stem, And lightly with the woodland share The change of night and day." For these many years, since I have lived here in the country, I have had it in my mind to write something about the odour and taste of this well flavoured earth. The fact is, both the sense of smell and the sense of taste; have been shabbily treated in the amiable rivalry of the senses. Sight and hearing have been the swift and nimble brothers, and sight especially, the tricky Jacob of the family, is keen upon the business of seizing the entire inheritance, while smell, like hairy Esau, comes late to the blessing, hungry from the hills, and willing to trade its inheritance for a mess of pottage. I have always had a kind of errant love for the improvident and adventurous Esaus of the Earth. I think they smell a wilder fragrance than I do, and taste sweeter things, and I have thought, therefore, of beginning a kind of fragrant autobiography, a chronicle of all the good odours and flavours that ever I have had in my life. As I grow older, a curious feeling comes often to me in the spring, as it comes this spring more poignantly than ever before, a sense of the temporariness of all things, the swiftness of life, the sadness of a beauty that vanishes so soon, and I long to lay hold upon it as it passes by all the handles that I can... Continue reading book >>

Great Possessions By: David Grayson (1870-1946)

Great Possessions by David Grayson is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a profound journey of self-discovery and appreciation for the simple joys in life. In this beautifully written narrative, Grayson captures the essence of rural living and the transformative power of nature through his experiences in the countryside.

The book delves into Grayson's decision to leave the bustling city life behind and embrace a quieter existence in the countryside. His vivid descriptions of the natural landscapes he encounters, from majestic mountains to serene meadows, evoke a sense of peace and tranquility that radiates from the pages. The author's deep connection with nature is palpable, making readers yearn for a similar connection in their own lives.

Grayson's reflections on the concept of possession are a central theme throughout the book. He encourages readers to question the notion of possessing material wealth and instead focuses on the importance of intangible riches like personal growth, friendships, and memories. This thought-provoking exploration of the true value of possessions is a refreshing perspective in a world often consumed by materialism.

Moreover, Great Possessions is much more than a nature memoir. It also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the human spirit and the bonds that tie us together. Grayson's encounters with fellow villagers, each with their unique stories and struggles, highlight the power of human connection and empathy.

The author's writing style is captivating, with poetic prose that flows effortlessly. His ability to capture even the simplest moments and infuse them with depth and significance is remarkable. The descriptive imagery and introspective musings create a reading experience that is both thought-provoking and emotionally rich.

One minor drawback of the book is that at times, the narrative can seem slightly muddled as Grayson weaves between personal anecdotes, philosophical reflections, and observations of nature. While each individual thread is compelling, it occasionally feels as though the book lacks a cohesive structure.

Despite this minor flaw, Great Possessions is a profound and uplifting read that offers inspiration and insight to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of what truly matters in life. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures, embrace nature's beauty, and nurture the connections that enrich our lives. Grayson's eloquent prose and introspective observations make this memoir a true gem for both nature lovers and those on a quest for personal growth.

First Page:

GREAT POSSESSIONS

By David Grayson

CHAPTER I

THE WELL FLAVOURED EARTH

"Sweet as Eden is the air And Eden sweet the ray. No Paradise is lost for them Who foot by branching root and stem, And lightly with the woodland share The change of night and day."

For these many years, since I have lived here in the country, I have had it in my mind to write something about the odour and taste of this well flavoured earth. The fact is, both the sense of smell and the sense of taste; have been shabbily treated in the amiable rivalry of the senses. Sight and hearing have been the swift and nimble brothers, and sight especially, the tricky Jacob of the family, is keen upon the business of seizing the entire inheritance, while smell, like hairy Esau, comes late to the blessing, hungry from the hills, and willing to trade its inheritance for a mess of pottage.

I have always had a kind of errant love for the improvident and adventurous Esaus of the Earth. I think they smell a wilder fragrance than I do, and taste sweeter things, and I have thought, therefore, of beginning a kind of fragrant autobiography, a chronicle of all the good odours and flavours that ever I have had in my life.

As I grow older, a curious feeling comes often to me in the spring, as it comes this spring more poignantly than ever before, a sense of the temporariness of all things, the swiftness of life, the sadness of a beauty that vanishes so soon, and I long to lay hold upon it as it passes by all the handles that I can... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – David Grayson
Wikipedia – Great Possessions

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac