William Wordsworth and the Yew-Trees of Borrowdale

William Wordsworth, who died in 1850, is famous worldwide as being one of England's greatest and genre defining poets and amongst his works of genius is a poem entitled 'Yew-Trees', published in 1803. This lavishly illustrated book explores his fascinating relationship with yew trees which inspired both his life and spiritual beliefs and especially so regarding a grove of ancient yews in the exceptionally beautiful valley of Borrowdale in the Lake District of Cumbria. Almost entirely forgotten since Wordsworth published his poem, their rennaissance in the past 20 years as trees of both national and global importance is a story in itself. Without Wordsworth's perception and intuition recognising them as truly remarkable trees, this may never have happened. Featuring new, exciting and often unique research compiled over a twenty year period by the author, this book reveals in compelling detail why yews are not only exceptional trees but also how they inspired and influenced Wordsworth in ways which have only now been proven by modern science.
“Paul Greenwood's work plays a key part in the urgent work of reconnecting human culture and the natural world - or rather, in helping us to realise that culture depends on nature. So there is nothing more important to appreciate and celebrate, as he does so well”.
Patrick Curry, author and writer for the New Statesman and Times Literary Supplement.