The Amateur Poacher By: Richard Jefferies (1848-1887)
The Amateur Poacher by Richard Jefferies is an enchanting and thought-provoking piece of literature that immerses readers in the captivating world of Victorian poaching. Jefferies has masterfully written a collection of tales that not only shed light on the underground activities of the time but also offer a deeper exploration of human connection with nature. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of rural England, this book takes readers on a journey through the eyes of the unnamed amateur poacher. With each story, Jefferies skillfully weaves a tapestry of adventures that capture the essence of the poacher's world. From night-time poaching expeditions to encounters with gamekeepers and unexpected friendships, the book delves into the intricacies and risks associated with this illegal profession. One of the most striking aspects of Jefferies' writing is his rich and vivid description of the natural surroundings. Through his poetic prose, he paints a vivid picture of the landscapes, the wildlife, and the changing seasons. This attention to detail allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of the countryside, making it abundantly clear why the poacher is compelled to spend his nights in pursuit of game. However, the book is not solely a celebration of the poacher's activities. Jefferies also delves into the moral and ethical considerations that arise from his actions. The author subtly explores the motivations and complexities of the poacher's character, prompting readers to question their own beliefs and assumptions about the relationship between humans and the natural world. This introspective aspect adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it much more than a simple anthology of hunting stories. Furthermore, Jefferies' ability to capture the rural dialects and vernacular of the time is commendable. The dialogue between characters feels authentic, further immersing readers in the social and cultural nuances of Victorian England. It lends a genuine and realistic touch to the stories, allowing readers to fully appreciate the challenges and struggles faced by the poacher and those in his circle. In conclusion, The Amateur Poacher by Richard Jefferies is a captivating and beautifully written collection that transports readers to a bygone era. Through its engaging stories and introspective themes, the book offers a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and nature. Jefferies' mastery of descriptive prose and ability to evoke a sense of time and place make this book a must-read for those passionate about nature, history, and the exploration of the human condition. First Page: THE AMATEUR POACHER BY RICHARD JEFFERIES PREFACE The following pages are arranged somewhat in the order of time, beginning with the first gun, and attempts at shooting. Then come the fields, the first hills, and woods explored, often without a gun, or any thought of destruction: and next the poachers, and other odd characters observed at their work. Perhaps the idea of shooting with a matchlock, or wheel lock, might, if put in practice, at least afford some little novelty. R.J. CONTENTS I. THE FIRST GUN II. THE OLD PUNT: A CURIOUS 'TURNPIKE' III. TREE SHOOTING: A FISHING EXPEDITION IV. EGG TIME: A 'GIP' TRAP V. WOODLAND TWILIGHT: TRAITORS ON THE GIBBET VI. LURCHER LAND: 'THE PARK' VII. OBY, AND HIS SYSTEM: THE MOUCHER'S CALENDAR VIII. CHURCHYARD PHEASANTS: BEFORE THE BENCH IX. LUKE, THE RABBIT CONTRACTOR: THE BROOK PATH. X. FARMER WILLUM'S PLACE: SNIPE SHOOTING XI. FERRETING: A RABBIT HUNTER XII. A WINTER NIGHT: OLD TRICKS: PHEASANT STALKING: MATCHLOCK VERSUS BREECH LOADER: CONCLUSION THE AMATEUR POACHER CHAPTER I THE FIRST GUN They burned the old gun that used to stand in the dark corner up in the garret, close to the stuffed fox that always grinned so fiercely... Continue reading book >>

The Amateur Poacher By: Richard Jefferies (1848-1887)

The Amateur Poacher by Richard Jefferies is an enchanting and thought-provoking piece of literature that immerses readers in the captivating world of Victorian poaching. Jefferies has masterfully written a collection of tales that not only shed light on the underground activities of the time but also offer a deeper exploration of human connection with nature.

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of rural England, this book takes readers on a journey through the eyes of the unnamed amateur poacher. With each story, Jefferies skillfully weaves a tapestry of adventures that capture the essence of the poacher's world. From night-time poaching expeditions to encounters with gamekeepers and unexpected friendships, the book delves into the intricacies and risks associated with this illegal profession.

One of the most striking aspects of Jefferies' writing is his rich and vivid description of the natural surroundings. Through his poetic prose, he paints a vivid picture of the landscapes, the wildlife, and the changing seasons. This attention to detail allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of the countryside, making it abundantly clear why the poacher is compelled to spend his nights in pursuit of game.

However, the book is not solely a celebration of the poacher's activities. Jefferies also delves into the moral and ethical considerations that arise from his actions. The author subtly explores the motivations and complexities of the poacher's character, prompting readers to question their own beliefs and assumptions about the relationship between humans and the natural world. This introspective aspect adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it much more than a simple anthology of hunting stories.

Furthermore, Jefferies' ability to capture the rural dialects and vernacular of the time is commendable. The dialogue between characters feels authentic, further immersing readers in the social and cultural nuances of Victorian England. It lends a genuine and realistic touch to the stories, allowing readers to fully appreciate the challenges and struggles faced by the poacher and those in his circle.

In conclusion, The Amateur Poacher by Richard Jefferies is a captivating and beautifully written collection that transports readers to a bygone era. Through its engaging stories and introspective themes, the book offers a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and nature. Jefferies' mastery of descriptive prose and ability to evoke a sense of time and place make this book a must-read for those passionate about nature, history, and the exploration of the human condition.

First Page:

THE AMATEUR POACHER

RICHARD JEFFERIES

PREFACE

The following pages are arranged somewhat in the order of time, beginning with the first gun, and attempts at shooting. Then come the fields, the first hills, and woods explored, often without a gun, or any thought of destruction: and next the poachers, and other odd characters observed at their work. Perhaps the idea of shooting with a matchlock, or wheel lock, might, if put in practice, at least afford some little novelty.

R.J.

CONTENTS

I. THE FIRST GUN

II. THE OLD PUNT: A CURIOUS 'TURNPIKE'

III. TREE SHOOTING: A FISHING EXPEDITION

IV. EGG TIME: A 'GIP' TRAP

V. WOODLAND TWILIGHT: TRAITORS ON THE GIBBET

VI. LURCHER LAND: 'THE PARK'

VII. OBY, AND HIS SYSTEM: THE MOUCHER'S CALENDAR

VIII. CHURCHYARD PHEASANTS: BEFORE THE BENCH

IX. LUKE, THE RABBIT CONTRACTOR: THE BROOK PATH.

X. FARMER WILLUM'S PLACE: SNIPE SHOOTING

XI. FERRETING: A RABBIT HUNTER

XII. A WINTER NIGHT: OLD TRICKS: PHEASANT STALKING: MATCHLOCK VERSUS BREECH LOADER: CONCLUSION

THE AMATEUR POACHER

CHAPTER I

THE FIRST GUN

They burned the old gun that used to stand in the dark corner up in the garret, close to the stuffed fox that always grinned so fiercely... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – Richard Jefferies
Wikipedia – The Amateur Poacher

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