David Gessner
Early Life and Education
David Gessner was born on March 18, 1961, in Boston, Massachusetts. He grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he developed a deep appreciation for nature and the environment. Gessner attended Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1983. During his time at Harvard, he was influenced by the works of Thoreau and Emerson, which sparked his interest in nature writing.
Career
Early Career
After graduating from Harvard, Gessner spent several years working various jobs, including as a construction worker and a house painter. He also traveled extensively, spending time in the American West, which would later become a significant influence on his writing. Gessner's first book, "A Wild, Rank Place: One Year on Cape Cod," was published in 1997. The book is a memoir of his time spent living on Cape Cod and reflects his deep connection to the natural world.
Academic Career
In addition to his writing, Gessner has had a distinguished academic career. He is currently a professor at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he teaches creative writing. Gessner has also been a visiting writer at numerous institutions, including Harvard University and the University of Montana.
Major Works
"A Wild, Rank Place"
Gessner's first book, "A Wild, Rank Place," is a memoir that chronicles his year-long stay on Cape Cod. The book explores themes of solitude, nature, and the human connection to the environment. It received critical acclaim for its lyrical prose and insightful observations.
"Return of the Osprey"
Published in 2001, "Return of the Osprey: A Season of Flight and Wonder" is one of Gessner's most celebrated works. The book documents the return of ospreys to Cape Cod after nearly disappearing due to DDT poisoning. Gessner's detailed observations and personal reflections make this book a significant contribution to nature writing.
"My Green Manifesto"
In "My Green Manifesto: Down the Charles River in Pursuit of a New Environmentalism" (2011), Gessner advocates for a more passionate and personal approach to environmentalism. The book combines a narrative of a canoe trip down the Charles River with a call to action for environmentalists to reconnect with the natural world on a personal level.
"All the Wild That Remains"
"All the Wild That Remains: Edward Abbey, Wallace Stegner, and the American West" (2015) is a dual biography of Abbey and Stegner, two iconic writers of the American West. Gessner examines their lives, works, and the enduring impact they have had on environmental literature and the conservation movement.
Themes and Style
Gessner's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, deep connection to nature, and personal reflections. He often explores themes such as solitude, the human connection to the environment, and the impact of human activity on the natural world. His works are known for their detailed observations and insightful commentary on environmental issues.
Influence and Legacy
David Gessner has had a significant impact on contemporary nature writing. His works have inspired a new generation of writers to explore the natural world and advocate for environmental conservation. Gessner's unique blend of personal narrative and environmental commentary has made him a prominent voice in the field of nature writing.
Awards and Honors
Gessner has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and environmental writing. These include the John Burroughs Award for Best Natural History Essay and the Association for the Study of Literature and Environment's Creative Writing Award. His work has also been featured in prestigious publications such as "The New York Times," "The Boston Globe," and "Orion Magazine."
Personal Life
David Gessner currently resides in Wilmington, North Carolina, with his wife, Nina de Gramont, who is also a writer. They have one daughter. Gessner continues to write and teach, and he remains an active advocate for environmental conservation.