Whistling in the Dark In Pursuit of the Nightingale

About this book

Eminent and highly respected nature writer Richard Mabey regards Whistling in the Dark as one of his top ten most significant books. After being exceptionally well-received on publication in 1993, it remains the only title from his collection that is no longer in print, and the timing feels perfect to bring this cherished text back into circulation as a classic edition.

Nightingales have acquired a newly high profile in the past couple of years, as a consequence of revelations about the collapse in their numbers and renewed interest on their cultural history. Each May there are now radio programmes broadcasting – sometimes live – songs and readings from woods in southern England.

This new and fully revised edition of Whistling in the Dark promises to be richer than ever, featuring:
- New first-hand accounts of nightingale performances, capturing their ethereal beauty at home and across the globe
- Insightful explorations into the bird's recent population changes, unveiling possible causes behind their mysterious decline.
- A newly uncovered story detailing how the nightingale's song featured in the iconic 1924 live BBC broadcast with cellist Beatrice Harrison was, in reality, the work of a remarkably talented human bird mimic.
- Cutting-edge scientific and philosophical perspectives on the profound relationship between birdsong and music.

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Biography

Richard Mabey is one of Britain's most eminent nature writers and the author of over thirty books including Flora Britannica, Weeds, Food for Free and The Unofficial Countryside. He writes regularly for the Times, the Guardian and BBC Wildlife. He is also a regular broadcaster on Radio 4.