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Disclaimer
This blog was created for ENVS 3000 W24, University of Guelph.
The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph.
The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.
Flowing with Nature - Interpretive Ethic
Hi everyone!
I can't believe it's already time for our final blog post! It's crazy to think how quickly time has flown by. It feels like just yesterday we began this journey of exploring nature interpretation. As I reflect on my journey, I'm excited to share with you my personal ethics as I continue to develop as a nature interpreter. This journey has been one of self-discovery, filled with moments of inspiration and growth. So, let's dive into what beliefs I bring, the responsibilities I hold, and the approaches I find most suitable.
Earlier in the semester, I remember watching a podcast that really stuck with me: “Flow, the secret to happiness” by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. He introduced the concept of "flow," a state of optimal experience where individuals are fully immersed and engaged in their activities, leading to feelings of clarity and fulfillment (Csikszentmihalyi, 2004). Overall, the message encourages viewers to seek activities and experiences that bring them into a state of flow, where they can find joy and purpose in their lives (Csikszentmihalyi, 2004).
Just as Csikszentmihalyi discusses finding happiness and meaning through activities that lead to a state of flow, nature interpretation encourages individuals to immerse themselves in nature in a way that promotes a similar sense of engagement and connection. Whether it's through guided hikes, wildlife observation, or hands-on conservation activities, nature interpretation provides avenues for individuals to enter a state of flow where they feel fully absorbed and connected to their surroundings. As I continue to develop as a nature interpreter, I am committed to creating experiences that enable individuals – peer, family or friends – to immerse themselves in nature, find joy and purpose in their interactions with the natural world, and cultivate a deeper connection with the environment.
For someone like me, who is passionate about nature and working with kids, the importance of educating the next generation to stay in touch with nature as well as conservation is crucial. This belief is deeply ingrained in my personal ethics and the responsibilities I feel as a nature interpreter. Through my journey in the Arts and Science program, where I'm minoring in both biology and family and child studies, I've come to recognize the profound importance of nature in a child's development.
Children are naturally curious and eager to explore the world around them. By fostering a connection with nature from a young age, we can instill in them a lifelong appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility for its protection. As a nature interpreter, it is my responsibility to provide opportunities for children to engage with the natural world in meaningful ways.
Additionally, as we delve deeper into the complexities of nature interpretation, I recognize the importance of addressing difficult issues that may arise. Incorporating the importance of addressing difficult issues into my personal ethics as a nature interpreter is essential for fostering a comprehensive understanding of the natural world and its complexities. As the textbook emphasizes, interpretive sites often grapple with critical issues that may span historical, environmental, cultural, and social domains (Beck et al., 2018, p. 94). It is the responsibility of interpreters to engage visitors in meaningful conversations about these topics, providing accurate information, fostering dialogue, and promoting critical thinking.
This dedication to confronting challenging topics is consistent with my belief that activism and education can bring about constructive change. In my role as a nature interpreter, I understand the importance of giving people context, a different point of view, and chances for reflection regarding matters like social justice, degradation of the environment, civil rights, and racial tensions. Interpreters can help individuals form stronger bonds with their surroundings by exploring these difficult subjects. As well as inspiring people to think about how they can contribute to the future of our planet.
Moreover, my background in both biology and family and child studies has equipped me with a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of natural and human systems. This interdisciplinary perspective enables me to approach difficult issues from multiple angles, considering their implications for both ecological and social well-being. By integrating scientific knowledge with principles of child development, I strive to create educational experiences that resonate with diverse audiences and inspire them to become agents of positive change in their communities.
As a nature interpreter, I consider myself a conversation starter who pushes people to face hard realities and imagine a future that is more equitable and sustainable. I aim to enable people to make informed decisions and tackle urgent environmental and social issues by sharing information based on science and fostering critical thinking.
I am filled with a sense of purpose and optimism for the future as I wrap up this post. Through my journey in nature interpretation, I have come to recognize the transformative power of immersive experiences, storytelling, and education in fostering a deep connection with the natural world, particularly among children—the next generation who will care for and protect environmental.
My approach to nature interpretation is based on a commitment to providing meaningful and profound experiences that develop a lifetime love for environment and a sense of responsibility for its conservation, from embracing the idea of flow to fostering children's natural curiosity and sense of wonder. By tackling challenging topics and offering precise information based on empathy and science, my goal is to enable people to become advocates for social justice and the environment.
Thank you to all of you who took the time to read my posts throughout the semester! I thoroughly enjoyed reading all of yours. I wish each and every one of you all the best!
- Zeina :)
References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World (pp. 94). Sagamore Publishing.
Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2004). Flow, the secret to happiness. https://www.ted.com/talks/mihaly_csikszentmihalyi_flow_the_secret_to_happiness/transcript?language=en
Hello!
Your blog was very well written and I enjoyed reading it. You perfectly describe how large of an impact nature interpretation has on kids. I am also passionate about working with kids, just like you, and I want to become a speech pathologist. I have noticed a lot of kids are growing up without the childhood that we experienced; they are consuming overstimulating media, spending less and less time outdoors, and not eating properly. This has such a negative effect on the kids, and I want to change that for the next generation of kids. I want to be able to gift them the low-stimulating and caring shows that we used to watch and take them outdoors as much as possible. Being connected with nature has such a profound impact on kids that cannot come from elsewhere; kids learn how to be kids but running around and getting dirty, making new friends at the park, and playing new games. These are the days they are going to remember when they are older, just as we do, not watching videos all day long.
I loved reading about Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's concept of "flow" into nature interpretation, he truly seems to have found the key to happiness. I personally try to stay out in nature as much as possible in order to be connected with it; I have always found a boost in my serotonin levels and my mood is generally happier. The same can be said for children and their moods too.
I wish you the best of luck in your future!
Nature Interpreter: Final Blog!
I never really thought about the journey that comes with being a nature interpreter until I took this course and wrote blogs every week that encompassed this role. As I grow into my full potential as a nature interpreter, my personal ethic is deeply intertwined with my experiences and interactions rooted in the nature around me. One thing I have learnt is that it is very hard to distinguish from right or wrong as everything falls in between. I try my best to approach everything with integrity and by acknowledging that while I do have knowledge, there is always something more to learn due to the complexity of nature. I would like to foster genuine connections and to continue down this path. Central to my ethic is conservation, which drives me to take action to protect the environment I cherish. This includes things like local clean up initiatives and tree planting. Throughout high school I started volunteering with a non profit which organised conservation retreats. One of them being, a weekend of cleaning up garbage around local parks in the spring. As well, we partnered with an initiative known as One Million Trees in Mississauga, to take a group of volunteers willing to spend an afternoon planting trees. Clearly, in every aspect of work, I’m guided by a commitment to environment conservation. Whether it's volunteering for restoration projects or promoting sustainable practices, I believe it's important to take action to protect the environment.
^^ Images from a weekend filled with tree planting and garbage pick up! Keeping our parks and the air we breathe, clean!
I am sure you might be wondering what are the reasons behind my dedication and commitment to environmental conservation. Answering the big ‘WHY’ often helps explain my purpose and passion, as well as why you should care (Beck et al., 2018, p.166). My core belief is rooted in a commitment to preservation for the greater good of future generations. In high school I took a class called Indigenous Studies. We learnt that they live by the seven generations principle where the choices we make in the present should result in a sustainable world for the next seven generations to come (Haley, 2023). This includes recognising the importance of traditional ecological knowledge which is passed down through generations. I recognise that we have the responsibility to consider the impact of our decisions on the well being of our descendants, seven generations ahead, and I hope that you do too! This principle urges us to act as caretakers of the Earth, incentivising us to preserve its resources and diversity for those who will be here, long after we are gone.
Recently, I read a book called Braiding Sweetgrass. It revolves around the lives of Indigenous people and their connection to nature. As a nature interpreter, I feel a sense of duty to live by their practices. One thing that resonated with me was the practice of honorable harvest which embodies the relationship Indigenous people have with the Earth, that is guided by principles of respect, reciprocity and sustainability (Kimmerer, 2013, p.183). To explain, they seek nature’s permission before gathering anything, express gratitude by leaving a gift in exchange, and utilize all resources provided by nature fully, leaving no waste behind (Kimmerer, 2013, p.183). While I may not be able to uphold all three responsibilities, I strive to at least fulfill one to the best of my ability. As a nature interpreter, I can help people develop a sense of place in the world and respect for plants and animals (Beck et al., 2018, p.55). One way I fulfill this responsibility is by appreciating my interactions with the natural world. For instance, when going on nature walks, I take in all the sights and sounds of nature to cultivate a deeper connection. As well, I strive to model respectful behaviour by following ethical guidelines by leaving no trace whenever I venture into forests or trails. I prioritize minimizing my ecological footprint and leaving the environment undisturbed by appreciating plants and animals from a distance. Ultimately, my responsibility of respecting nature comes through my actions and I hope to inspire others to make an effort rooted in respect towards building a better relationship with nature. In addition, I can fulfill this responsibility by raising awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity. As a nature interpreter my obligation is to find the interconnectedness of different ecosystems, social structures and cultural diversity.
A good interpreter is able to create an uplifting emotional experience (Beck et al. 2018, p. 222). As an interpreter, I believe the best approach to conveying that experience is through storytelling. Stories are easier to remember and it increases the chance that I got someone thinking deeper. I have the ability to reach multiple target audiences through storytelling as there may be something that keeps their attention and it helps people reflect on their experiences and find something to relate to (Beck et al., 2018, p. 222). Moreover, it allows you to evoke a sense of awe which can motivate someone to take a step forward and join the cause. By sharing stories of my efforts, I am hoping to at least inspire and educate one person in the audience to foster a deeper connection to nature. Ultimately, approaching the task of a nature interpreter using diverse styles is the most useful for learning to occur, as not everyone absorbs information the same way (Beck et al., 2018, p. 110). I am interested in delving into an alternative approach which involves visual learning. I feel that it goes hand in hand with storytelling, as the goal is to depict the experience before the individual, ensuring a lasting impression. It is also a very universal approach, as visual demonstrations can reach a diverse audience (Beck et al., 2018, p. 110). It helps immerse the individual and deepen their understanding. For example, I wouldn’t have found my love for killer whales, had I not had the chance to see the mammal in person. Their size and personality instantly captivated my attention, promoting me to learn more about them. Following the encounter, I found myself inspired and dedicated hours watching documentaries and films centered around these majestic creatures.
Overall, my beliefs as a nature interpreter center around respect and integrity with a commitment to promoting stewardship in our relationship with the environment. Hopefully after reading my last blog, you will consider the same!
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing.
Haley, M. (2023, November 7). The seventh generation principle 7 the seventh generation. The Seventh Generation Tours Akaroa New Zealand. https://theseventhgeneration.org/blog-the-seventh-generation-principle/
Kimmerer, R. W. (2013). Braiding Sweetgrass. Milkweed Editions .
ENVS*3000 season finale - the sunset post🌤
a sunset pic I took during some sacred cottage time on West Lake near Picton, ON
As the course and the semester come to a close, it feels entirely appropriate that we finish this journey off with some mildly existential thoughts about our ethics as interpreters. I think the fact that I’m also in the process of finishing up my degree has me squirreling out a bit as the cherry on top of this introspection.
While we’ve done a lot of soul-searching over this semester, I think one thing has remained, one thing is evergreen — when I think about nature, I think about serenity, peace, sanctuary. I believe that time in nature has the power and (as fantastical as it sounds) the energy to offer healing. It gives space for a quieter mind, a more peaceful soul. Even as I write these words, the stem student in me is cringing a bit - I have no concrete sources to back up these claims!!
But that points to something invaluable that this course has given me — the leeway to not focus solely on the data and the quantitative and the cold-hard-ness of science, and to instead lean into the interpretation, to focus on the feelings and think about what they mean.
I mean, yeah, I believe in science, I believe in its place, and I love what it’s given me: the knowledge and means with which to explore questions and attain answers. But in interpretation, science can’t stand alone.
I believe in art. Interpretation needs art the same way humans do. Not for some absolutely practical or functional purpose, but for an added layer, added interest, added connection to the natural wonders around us. I believe in the duality of nature and think that the point of interpretation should be to explore that push-and-pull relationship between science and art.
Now as for my responsibilities as an interpreter. I thought a lot about this question early in the course. In the beginning, I think I was intimidated by the idea that everyone must be pleased, must be included. And I know that dismissing the idea that “everyone should be included” can come across as harsh. But I think that I landed on the idea that it’s important to strike a balance between doing everything you can AND “staying in your lane”, as it were.
It’s hard to be everything all at once, and we can’t be. It’s valid to have the desire to accommodate every single person, but what is the cost there? What is the end product once you’ve spread yourself so thin? It doesn't mean giving up, in any sense, but instead highlighting your own abilities and lifting up others who fill in those gaps. It's about the net result, it's about interpretation as a community.
But to be an interpreter inherently puts you in a position of authority, of leadership - and that can be daunting.
So I approach this question a little differently now. Yes, I have the responsibility of providing valuable content to people in a way that respects their stories and their backpacks. I have the responsibility of putting out work that I am proud of, as to not take peoples' attention for granted. But up front, I have a responsibility that harkens back to acknowledging myself, my strengths and individuality as an interpreter.
This line of thought sparked questions not like
“how do I make my content valuable to every person?” or “how do I make sure everyone is happy and accommodated?”
but instead
“what can I realistically provide in a valuable way? which is the audience that will truly benefit from what I can offer, and how can I make sure that I am putting my focus there?”
The answers to these questions are still being sorted out, I think.
Still, I do know that I am more inclined to cater to the artistic- and abstract- inclined. I don’t necessarily see myself on the cold-hard-science side of academia. As a science student, I’ve pushed a passion for art aside in a lot of ways.
And it’s a tad cheesy, I’d admit, but this course has pushed me to think about why that is, and to imagine reintegrating art. Everything is still a little foggy, but there is a semblance of a clear path, or a few of them. Something in the realm of the visual arts, or even an increased focus on less technical writing feels like my fit.
silly little doodle i did
Thinking about how I could approach nature interpretation, I’m brought back to the ideas about learning styles that we touched on earlier in the course. I mulled it over and landed on the fact that I like working alone, and need it to some extent, and I’m coming to terms with the fact that that doesn’t have to be forever. This stage is about self-discovery, for the purposes that I’ve mentioned – offering true value to the audience that would benefit the most. It’s about exploring myself as an interpreter, the things I have to offer, and giving myself time and space to do so.
But I am passionate about the intimate link between people and nature, and I care about sharing this passion with other people. And again, I think that art is a perfect realm for this sort of work. Building community is part of the art world, but so is introspection and individuality. It offers both sides of the coin: time spent alone with the craft, the creation, and time spent sharing what you discovered and made in that time.
While I’d love to have shared some really confident and concrete answers to these questions, I think the best thing I can do right now is be honest about the uncertainty, about the possibilities, and the little bits of self-assuredness that I do hold with me right now, and carrying on this journey of discovery in spite of it.
If you’ve made it this far into this post (by choice or obligation), I really truly want to say THANK YOU. This was a pretty self-centered entry and sharing all these thoughts has been cathartic, to say the least.
Hello!
I enjoyed reading your response and I relate to your artistic vs scientific perspective. Being a STEM major myself, I think it is truly so hard to be able to balance nature and the arts with science. In order to free myself from the constraints of the analytical and systematic world, I tend to travel. I have traveled to a few countries and I always tend to gravitate towards the natural wonders in my vicinity. The calm and peacefulness I felt in those natural locations, especially during my time in Banff, was unrivalled. I felt at one with nature and everything felt so much brighter and better. However, art and nature are what make the world feel alive but science and rationality sustain it.
So I agree with you, that nature is just as much of an important force for us as science. A prime example of this is during quarantine when everyone was at home bored out of their minds. The only thing that could cure this boredom were the arts. Everybody turned to music, movies, painting, hiking, and other artistic hobbies. People were going for walks in nature and overall doing things that they probably never would have gotten the chance to do, if not for quarantine. The arts saved us in many ways, but we still had to get back to the real world. I, too, used the arts to cure my boredom. I discovered my favorite band, Queen, during quarantine. Queen is the perfect example of how the arts and science can come together to produce the most legendary music that is still played till date. A band created by an astrophysicist, an art major, an electrical engineer, and a dental student who all used instruments to their utmost, and created such unique music. And their art student and lead, Freddie Mercury, created a spectacular logo and a different perspective on rock and roll. Truly changing music forever, and it was only done by the arts and the sciences coming together!
09: Amazing things in nature - my favourite animal!
Hi everyone! Since this week’s prompt is to talk about the most amazing thing we know in nature, I thought I’d talk about my favourite animal, the spotted hyena! Although you can’t see these animals in Canada unless you go to a zoo, they’re super cool to learn about!
Source: Joel Sartore, https://www.joelsartore.com/search/hyena/
Spotted hyenas, with their unique appearance and intriguing behaviours, stand out as some of Africa's most interesting creatures. From their distinctive laughs to their complex social structures, these animals never fail to spark curiosity. Did you know that despite their appearance, they're actually more related to cats than they are to dogs?
Their robust build with distinctive spots gives them an unmistakable presence. But what truly sets them apart is their extremely complex and unique social dynamics. In the world of spotted hyenas, it's the females who reign supreme. These matriarchs, larger and more dominant than their male counterparts, lead their clans with a ton of strength.
As for their vocalizations, the noises hyenas make are fascinating due to their versatility and complexity, ranging from spine-chilling laughs to a wide array of grunts, whoops, and growls. These vocalizations play a crucial role in communication within their clans, conveying information about social status and territory. Their vocalizations even convey their identities to eachother as each hyena has its own distinct “whooping” sound, just like how each of us have our own distinct fingerprints!
But it's not just their looks and noises that make spotted hyenas fascinating, it's their smarts too. These creatures are surprisingly amazing hunters. Working together, they employ tactics that enable them to take down prey much larger than themselves, largely due to the fact that their jaws are 10x stronger than a pitbull’s! And when it comes to meals, they eat pretty much everything since they have special enzymes in their stomach that can fully digest the stongest of materials like bone and venom. From insects to venomous snakes, spotted hyenas will have a go at anything, contributing to the delicate balance of their ecosystems as both predators and scavengers.
Despite their remarkable qualities, spotted hyenas don’t have the best reputation, and are made the villains in many stories. This is probably due to their eerie vocalizations, their knack for scavenging, or even their uncanny ability to consume everything, bones included. Throughout history, they've been linked to death and the supernatural in African folklore, adding an air of mystery to their already mysterious presence. And then there's the competition with humans for resources, a rivalry that has often led to misunderstandings and conflicts.
Despite this, efforts are underway to set the record straight and give spotted hyenas the credit they deserve. Scientists are delving into their behaviour, ecology, and importance in ecosystems, shedding light on their true nature and advocating for their conservation. These animals are not just symbols of fear, they're integral parts of Africa's rich tapestry of life.
Overall, spotted hyenas are not just predators of the night, they're the charismatic characters of the African plains, adding complexity to the ecosystems they’re part of. With their playful antics and fierce determination, they've earned their place as one of Africa's most iconic animals!
Law, J. (2004). Crocuta crocuta Spotted Hyena. Animal Diversity Web. Retrieved March 11, 2024, from https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Crocuta_crocuta/
Hey there! I enjoyed reading your response and loved gaining new insight regarding Heynas. I have always had a keen interest in Heynas ever since I saw them in The Lion King. Seeing their comedic interactions throughout the film as a child made me especially interested in them. After the movie, I asked my parents to take me to see hyenas in real life, so we took a trip to the African Lion Safari here in Ontario. However, we quickly realized that Heynas were not an attraction there, and they are actually rare to spot in Canada. I think the Toronto Zoo is the only place I can think of with Heynas for public viewing. You asked the question of knowing the fact that Heynas are more closely related to cats than they are to dogs, and I actually did not know that. Upon first glance, they definitely look similar to dogs, but the characteristics you've mentioned lean more toward those of cats. I found it very intriguing that females reign supreme.
Did you know that elephants, orcas, and killer whales are some more species in which the females are dominant? The vocalization of Heynas is definitely fascinating, especially their laughs. I remember, as a kid, I was scared when I first heard their laugh in The Lion King.
You've mentioned that Heynas are exceptional hunters, and you are absolutely correct!
Although they have great hunting tactics and clans form to catch larger prey, they usually hunt alone. They are brilliant in hunting and will approach their prey in different ways. If they think the prey is too big, then they will resort to hunting in clans as opposed to going at it individually. All in all, they are some of the most exciting species there is, and I loved the new information your post has given mel Have a great day!
The Most Amazing Thing About Nature
Welcome nature enthusiasts to my blog and prepare to be mesmerized!
Have you ever just opened up a travel brochure and seen beautiful pictures of islands with clear blue water or glowing beaches at night? Well, imagine this, a warm summer night with you standing right by the shore with your toes digging into the sand and waves gently rushing towards your feet. The moon is the only bright thing in sight, until suddenly the water starts to glow a bright blue, illuminating the darkness. What you are imagining isn’t a scene from a disney movie but one of nature’s most amazing displays.
Bioluminescent waves spotted at Long Beach in California (https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/01/04/bioluminescence-beach-waves-orange-county-california/72102677007/ )
Bioluminescence is one of the most mesmerizing phenomena nature has to offer. If this rings a bell or you’re not sure what it is let me backtrack and refresh your memory. Bioluminescence is when living organisms produce light (US Department of Commerce, 2010). Bioluminescent creatures exist in places like the deepest parts of the ocean to the dense woodlands. Each creature is unique in the way it emits light (US Department of Commerce, 2010). You’ve probably seen or noticed some of these organisms and never realized they are known to be bioluminescent like fireflies (US Department of Commerce, 2010)! One of the most iconic examples consist of marine organisms where an abundance of tiny dinoflagellates cause the ocean to glow, also known as bioluminescent bays.
When the dinoflagellates are disturbed or they sense movement, they respond by creating trails of light wherever they go (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023). Imagine canoeing through these waters at night (although I do not recommend it) while trailing your hand and watching as the water comes alive with shimmering light under your fingertips! It truly feels like a scene straight out of a fairytale. For example, bright waves traveling with the movement of dolphins spotted at Huntington and Newport beach in California. It’s not just the ocean but high in the treetops at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in South Africa where you’ll see enchanting fireflies. Or in depths of caves like the Waitomo Glowworm caves in New Zealand where the darkness is disrupted by the light from glowworms (Watkins et al., 2018). These insects found in dark and damp caves, emit a green light to attract prey or potential mates (Watkins et al., 2018).
An image of the caves in New Zealand lit up due to the glowworms (https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/travel-and-adventure/2019/01/see-natures-amazing-glow-in-the-dark-spectacles)
Did you believe these organisms only light up to claim the title of the coolest creatures around? There’s more to it than meets the eye! Some bioluminescent organisms attract prey using their light like the glowworms (Watkins et al., 2018). Others use it to camouflage with their environment (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023). Most often it is used for communication like how fireflies flash their lights to attract mates (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023). Animals like jellyfish use their ability to defend themselves by scaring their predators (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023).
The magic of bioluminescence doesn’t stop there! Scientists are still discovering new species and finding out how and why these organisms produce light. From glowing fish to fireflies high up in the sky, there is a diverse variety of bioluminescence. So next time you look out into the ocean or gaze out at the night sky, think of all the glowing organisms. Hopefully, after reading today’s blog, I’ve gotten my message across and brought the experience directly to you!
The Ocean Portal Team. (2023a, May 11). Bioluminescence. Smithsonian Ocean. https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/fish/bioluminescence
US Department of Commerce, N. O. and A. A. (2010, February 12). What is bioluminescence?. NOAA’s National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/biolum.html#:~:text=Bioluminescence%20is%20the%20production%20and,surface%20to%20the%20deep%20seafloor.
Watkins, O. C., Sharpe, M. L., Perry, N. B., & Krause, K. L. (2018). New Zealand glowworm (arachnocampa luminosa) bioluminescence is produced by a firefly-like luciferase but an entirely new luciferin. Scientific Reports, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-21298-w
The Beauty of Nature Through Music
Our natural world has many beautiful features. The beauties of nature are not only seen by the eye but can also be heard when you listen closely. Where is music in nature? When reflecting on this question, my first thought was that music is everywhere in nature. When I step outside, I am surrounded by the music of nature.
Music is not just created by humans as a form of expression and communication. Animals like whales and birds also use songs as a form of communication.
Humpback whales communicate using songs with similar components to our music (Gray et al., 2001). These whales produce repeating rhythmic themes that form songs of similar length to musical pieces written by humans (Gray et al., 2001). The notes formed by whales are similar in tone, timber and intervals to those used by humans (Gray et al., 2001). The beautiful yet eerie songs produced by whales are a prime example of where music is found in nature.
Here is a video my sister took of a humpback whale while she was in Nova Scotia.
Numerous bird species communicate through song. Birds use rhythmic patterns and changes in pitch to create songs to communicate with other birds (Gray et al., 2001). Birds will also produce songs using musical scales like those used by humans (Gray et al., 2001). When I think of music in nature, the beautiful songs created by birds are the first thing that comes to mind.
Here is a picture I took of a Black-capped Chickadee. I am sure many of you can hear the "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call.
Ambient sounds like the rustle of leaves in the breeze or the sound of water rushing downstream are another example of music heard in nature (Gray et al., 2001). These ambient sounds heard in nature and the sounds produced by different animals come together to form a symphony or “biophony” as described by Gray et al. (2001). The biophony created in various ecosystems forms distinguishable music unique to a location.
Here is a picture I took of a waterfall located on Six Mile Lake in Muskoka. Imagine the relaxing music the water makes as it crashes over the rocks.
Where is nature in music? For centuries humans have been inspired by nature. As a result, people have tried to capture nature through music. From folk music dating back centuries to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to modern-day music, nature has inspired humans to create music.
As stated by Mallarach (2012), folk music is found in all cultures and often expresses the importance of the natural world. Folk music is an art that elicits emotions while building people's connection to their natural surroundings (Mallarach, 2012). Finnish folk music has been used to pass down messages on how sacred nature is to humans and how people can live in tune with nature (Mallarach, 2012).
The Sami indigenous people of Scandinavia create vocal songs called yoiks to describe life, animals and natural places (Gray et al., 2001). The yoiks have no words but are made up of repetitive cycles (Gray et al., 2001), much like the songs birds and whales communicate with. Finnish folk singers and the Sami people communicate through music to share the beauty and significance of nature in their communities.
Interpreters can use music to share knowledge of natural heritage places. The use of music in nature interpretation helps interpreters paint cultural and historical pictures of natural landscapes and resources (Beck et al., 2019). Also, music can help deliver environmental sustainability messages in memorable ways that provoke the listener's emotions (Beck et al., 2019).
I have a strong emotional connection with the song “Island in the Sun” by Weezer. This song transports me to my cottage on Six Mile Lake. I have spent countless summer days at my family cottage sitting on our dock listening to this song on the radio station my parents love. When I hear this song, I can picture the island my cottage is on. I can see the red roof of our cottage peeking out over the tall white pines that grow over the hard rock of the Canadian Shield. I can feel the breeze blowing off the water as the sun shines down on the water.
The lyrics of this song remind me of the calming effect being at my cottage has on me:
“On Island in the sun
We’ll be playing and having fun
And it makes me feel so fine”
This song reminds me of all the fun I have had over the years swimming with my sisters, going on sunset boat rides, having campfires with my family and many more memories. This song brings back a nostalgic feeling and reminds me of the beautiful lake that made me appreciate nature from a young age.
This is a picture I took of the bay my cottage looks out at on Six Mile Lake.
Music is not unique to humans. Music can be heard in the melody of birds harmonizing with the branches swaying in the breeze. Music is found in the rhythm of rain falling to the ground as spring peepers sing their chorus in the distance. Music can be heard throughout our world by humans and animals alike. The art of music is a powerful tool used to draw on people’s emotions to highlight the significance and beauty of our natural world.
References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2019). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Publishing.
Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science, 291(5501), 52. https://link-gale-com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8
Mallarach, Josep-Maria (2012). Spiritual Values of Protected Areas of Europe: Workshop Proceedings. Bonn, Germany: Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, 2012. 170 pp. ISBN: 978-3-89624-057-6.
Weezer. (2009, June 17). Weezer - island in the Sun (official music video). YouTube. https://youtu.be/erG5rgNYSdk?si=3K8eerbPPMD5b5hc
Hi there,
I enjoyed reading about your perspective on music’s presence in nature. It’s fascinating to learn about the similarities between the rhythmic tones produced by whales and the musical compositions created by humans. It goes to show that there is an outstanding connection between both species when it comes to music and interpreting sound. You brought up Finnish folk music, and it really highlights the intricate role music plays to preserve a strong culture as well advocating for environmental sustainability. By integrating music into nature interpretation, people are able to engage on a deeper level by feeling a sense of connection towards nature itself.
You have done a great job of this when you analysed the song Island in the sun, which is also one of my personal favorites! This song reminds me of driving down a winding road on the way to Jasper AB with the windows down, feeling the fresh air on my face. It's incredible how music has an ability to transport us to specific moments in our lives. Do you think your appreciation for the song is influenced by the natural surroundings of your cottage? And has spending time in nature strengthened your connection to music overall? In my opinion, the sounds of nature mimic the melodies and rhythms found in modern music, so being in nature heightens my senses. There’s just something about the rhythms of waves and hearing rain that allows me to experience music on a deeper level which I am sure you can resonate with.
Music and Nature
Everywhere. Music is in nature everywhere. Just a few days ago Guelph had a thunderstorm and I couldn’t help but relish in the sound of raindrops against glass windows and the thunder rolling. It got me thinking back to the many times we’ve heard nature speak and sing. It reminded me of early summer mornings when I’d wake up to the sound of birds chirping, only to then close my window so I could sleep. Or the time I heard colonies of sea lions in California. One of nature’s melodies that I enjoy the most is the crashing sound of waves reaching shore and the crackling of a fire. That is to say, whether it's the sounds mother nature makes through the elements or through animals, music is everywhere in nature. This can also be proven to be true vis versa.
As Micheal Spitzer once wrote, music is our umbilical cord to mother nature (Bastian, 2021). What he means by that is, the music we listen to today is an evolution of the sounds we have put together from animals and other aspects of nature. Essentially, when you are listening to music, you are taking a journey through time. In a podcast linked below, he discusses the beginning of time when animals were the only creatures on the Earth that sang like whales and birds, whether it was to communicate with others or to attract mates (Bastian, 2021). Somewhere down the line our ancestors assimilated those vocalizations (Bastian, 2021). He discusses different theories on why homosapiens are captivated by the sounds of nature and how it has provided evolutionary advantages (Bastian, 2021). Eventually, they used nature’s sounds and created tools like bone flutes to mimic and create melodies based on the rhythms created by insects like crickets (Bastian, 2021). Thus, if we were to think back to the original point of this discussion, where is nature in music, Spitzer would argue nature is the backbone of music.
https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/life-examined/evolution-music/michael-spitzer-musical-human
(In the spirit of listening and creating podcasts, I’ve linked the podcast above where the author & professor Micheal Spitzer discusses how nature has impacted the music we listen to today. I would highly recommend that you check it out, it's very fascinating!)
On that note, much of the music I listen to is instrumental, especially violin music. Having played two instruments growing up, I enjoy listening to different melodies. Even when I listen to lyrical music, I often find myself humming the tune while struggling to recall the lyrics. One of my favorite songs is called Raindrops and it is composed by a violinist named Raaginder. If you check out his discography, most of his songs are inspired by nature hence the name of the song. This is one of his earliest works from 9 years ago and it has the magical ability to transport me to the memory of my grandmother and I sitting on the terrace of her home back in India, watching as the soft winds blow across the fields during monsoon. Listening to this piece reminds of the soothing rustle of the leaves and the smell of the wet soil. This personal connection with the song is a beautiful testament to the power of music, to be able to forge deep emotional connections with nature and our own personal histories.
Bastian, J. (2021, June 12). Why music is “our umbilical cord to mother nature”: Life examined. KCRW. https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/life-examined/evolution-music/michael-spitzer-musical-human
History and Nature
There was a story that I stumbled upon a while ago by Molly Seaman, when researching the Holocaust. She visited Krakow, Poland which can be designated as a place of memory. As explained in the textbook, a place of memory is a property or site vested with historical significance due to the nature of the historic events that occurred there (Beck et al., 2018). Her story is called The Trees Have Eyes and it’s about her experience visiting the largest German Nazi concentration camp in Poland. She says, “The trees. The trees of Auschwitz-Birkenau. The trees that saw everything. That is when it hit me. The trees have eyes (Seaman, 2021).” She was appealing to the fact that the trees that stood long before her, had witnessed the atrocities of genocide and are part of the landmarks that stand today as a reminder of what 1.1 million people went through (Seaman, 2021). The story about the trees doesn’t only apply to her experience but she applies it to the experience of others, like the trees having seen farmers struggling to make ends meet because they can’t cultivate their land due to climate change (Seaman, 2021).
Within her story, Seaman does exactly what entails the role of a history interpreter. Remembering stories of the past, whether they are tragedies, atrocities or happy memories, is very important as one can look back at the past and change the future so the mistakes and atrocities the trees have seen while quietly planted, will not be repeated.
I shared Seaman’s story, because it encapsulates the quote we were to unpack this week. To me, this quote highlights how ancient things have no value on their own. To expand, ancient relics hold value due to the memories they hold as well as the history behind it. This is what adds to the entertainment value of specific areas. As the textbook mentioned, quality living history will provide entertainment on its own (Beck et al., 2018). Whether the entertainment is in the form of stories or sightseeing of ancient things. This is what allows ancient relics to live on and we cannot forget about it as the tracks cannot forget about the train that has passed through. Just like Seaman’s story, the Holocaust impacted millions of people and we don’t forget about the history or keep it in the past. It is still discussed today due to the remnants of the past - families impacted, lives lost, stories for generations.
In essence, the quote emphasizes the importance of respecting and maintaining antiquity, not due to their age but their role in maintaining integrity throughout time. It cautions against overlooking the past as insignificant highlighting how history is woven through the past but also affects the present and future.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing.
Seaman, M. (2021, April 16). The Trees Have Eyes. Loquitur. https://theloquitur.com/the-trees-have-eyes/
The Railway ‘Walked’ So The Train Could ‘Run.’
For this week, we are to unpack the quote by Edward Hyams – I found I had to read it several times to grasp the poetic wording and metaphor! In doing so, I also had to rethink its meaning each time I reread it which provided a deeper understanding. Here is how I initially unpacked the quote:
The quote begins by speaking to the idea that old items generally don’t have much worth (aside from the cool vintage finds at Value Village). Following is a seemingly different topic, integrity. Edward says that to have integrity (honesty, moral principle), one must keep together the smaller factors that come together to create the larger outcome. He then brings it back to the idea of “ancient things” by describing how the parts he is referring to are actually history or “scattered through time.” With this in mind, ancient things are indeed of importance, as the knowledge they provide upholds integrity.
In summary: History may seem unimportant, yet it provides knowledge and memory of the parts of our past that have come together to make up the whole of our present.
So, what’s this got to do with nature interpretation?
Well, every single inch of land on our Earth has a story that accompanies it and in knowing its past we are more equipped to interpret its present. For instance, the University of Guelph was once a 500-acre farm, focused purely on agriculture studies; knowing this I can see why the term “aggies” is so suited and niche to the University of Guelph (UofG, 2024). Fortunately, this information was documented and is easily accessible, along with much more information on the history of UofG. However, this is not always the case – there is often controversy on the accuracy and authenticity of history (Beck et al., 2018). This is an issue to interpreting nature in various ways, for instance, even if experts find history to be authentic, interpreters have found that visitors do not necessarily believe in the authenticity (Beck et al., 2018). If visitors do not find the interpreters' knowledge to be credible, they will be less likely to participate and enjoy the nature interpretation (Beck et al., 2018).
Reflecting on the implications of Edward’s words, I think how so many pieces of land, particularly land where humans do not reside and nature is the true focus, have limited documented history. I would love to learn the stories and evolution of the forestry behind my house, however this knowledge on ancient things was not documented, taking its integrity away too. This inspires myself to take pictures of nature and write about what I see, as one day when the present becomes history, I will be able to refer to the knowledge and experiences I have gained and share that with others.
To conclude for this week, I think an important takeaway is that the present would not be how it is without the past, and thus we should acknowledge both. Or, in other words, the railway ‘walked,’ so the train could ‘run.’
Thanks for tuning in,
Kiera
References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore-Venture.
University of Guelph [UofG]. (2024). University of Guelph History. https://www.uoguelph.ca/about/history/
Hi there!
Your blog was insightful and well-written. It helped give me a different perspective on the quote's meaning. You did a great job assessing the quote and bringing in critical examples to further explain your point, including emphasizing the importance of understanding the history of every inch of land. I found it intriguing how you challenged the idea of how accurate and authentic our history is. When I come to think of it, what we read or hear may not always be the most reliable source since we weren’t there to experience it firsthand. This raises many questions regarding the accuracy of the information we’re receiving. Do you have any suggestions on how we could test out the reliability of these sources? Additionally, you mentioned that you would love to learn the stories of evolution regarding the forestry behind your house; similarly, I also have a keen interest in learning about my parent's land back in India. My parents immigrated to Canada at a relatively young age, and I was born and raised here. Throughout my childhood, it was normal to learn about the history of the land here, and I would often share with my mom new stuff I learned in school about the surrounding geography. History was always fascinating, and I remember one time when I was sharing with my mother my new knowledge regarding Indigenous land, she brought up the question of if I know anything about our land in India. I remember hesitating to formulate my thoughts because, in all honesty, I did not know much about it. Ever since that question, I have had a high interest in learning about history and the land around me, and as you’ve mentioned, one day, the present will become history. My parents' land, which was present-day for them, has become history for me. I think it’s great that you take pictures and write about what you see because the experiences you have will be helpful when sharing them with others.
Nature and Mental Health
This week, we were not assigned any particular prompt or subject to discuss. Hopefully, my thoughts will not be too scattered and will be easy to understand! This week, I wanted to talk about the role of nature in health. As a disclaimer, I do not believe by any means that nature is a cure for mental illness, but I want to reflect on the role it has played in my life, both related to mental health and also living a balanced, active lifestyle. Growing up, as I’ve mentioned in many of my posts, I spent quite a bit of time outdoors. Encouraged by my parents, teachers, and friends, I developed a love of science and nature. Yet, it wasn’t until I began high school that nature played a little bit of a different role in my life.
Life changed and brought new stresses along the way. My family moved, and that also brought with it excitement and stress. It was around that time that I started going for walks. Now, I lived in the suburbs, and as such, the scenery wasn’t the most stunning scenery I’d ever seen. But I lived by an old abandoned golf course and a little trail a couple of houses down that had a quiet river. I would just tell my parents I was going for a walk (after I’d reassured them ten times that I had my phone, I would be back in exactly 35 minutes, and I would stay away from strange men), and off I’d go.
Now, why am I reflecting on walking in the suburbs? It’s certainly a peculiar thing to focus on in a nature interpretation course. But it was during these walks that I discovered something many people have already discovered: being out in nature is incredibly calming. I began to take more walks when I was stressed, tired or just needed some time to think about absolutely nothing. It became a daily routine and one I still practice. Sometimes, I think I fall into the trap that my enjoyment of nature must culminate in a big trip or climbing a mountain (still on my bucket list, I’ll admit). But the daily enjoyment of the outdoors, even if it’s a 20-minute walk in between classes, has innumerable benefits. It has been shown in the scientific literature that exposure to nature in various forms can decrease anxiety and improve cognitive function, blood pressure, sleep and other health markers (Jimenez et al., 2021).
Ideally, encouraging others to spend time outdoors would not be solely focused on the health benefits, but I would love to see more and hear more stories about people who have experienced improved health. For me, I’ve found that going for walks outside in nature helps me process daily life, relieves stress to an extent, gets me active, and helps me sleep better. Is it the only reason I spend time outdoors? Absolutely not. Is it a useful tool in improving my daily health? One hundred percent.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2019). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Publishing.
Jimenez, M. P., DeVille, N. V., Elliott, E. G., Schiff, J. E., Wilt, G. E., Hart, J. E., & James, P. (2021). Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: a Review of the Evidence. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(9), 4790. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094790
Hi there,
I understand where you're coming from, as I live in the suburbs as well. I think we're fortunate by having something like a trail or a nice path to walk along, as some people may not have the same luxury. Right down the street from my house is a golf course as well and there is a path carved around it within the forestry area the golf course is in. On summer evenings, it is the perfect place to go for a walk as you can see the sun setting through the enormous course. you made a great point about being satisfied with any dose of nature and walking that is possible even if its for a few minutes and that resonates with me since most of my outdoor walking comes from 20 minute walks in between classes. Even small doses of nature make me happier and have a positive effect on my health like you mentioned. Going for a walk gives me that time away from my stressors and helps me feel lighter so when I get back, I can get back to my tasks with newfound determination. While it's important to acknowledge the health benefits of spending time outdoors, it's also about fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and appreciating its value. By sharing personal stories and experiences like yours, I believe it can inspire others to explore natural and discover its benefits for themselves.
Killer Whales
I have always been obsessed with marine animals, especially killer whales ever since I watched the movie Free Willy, back in grade two. And of course, since there is no prompt this week, I thought what better way to conclude this week by talking about Northern Resident Killer Whales (NRKW) and the ongoing efforts for their wildlife conservation.
To provide some background, NRKW can only be found in Canada, specifically, on the coast of British Columbia, as well as some parts of Washington State and Alaska. They are under the Species at Risk Act as there are only 332 NRKWs remaining in the entire world as of 2022 (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). Back in the late 1900’s, NRKW populations used to grow by the hundreds but their life expectancy has been slowly declining due to a decrease in prey, impacting their survival rates (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). Having said that, they only feed on chinook salmon but it is not always available due to commercial fishing, climate change and river blockage (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). This results in the NRKWs traveling away from their natural habitat (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). Since then, there has been an increase in conservation efforts towards NRKWs as they play a critical role in the ecosystem.
Raincoast Conservation Foundation, a non profit based at the University of Victoria has been working for years to educate the public via science and through courts to help the NRKW population thrive once again. They have led many legal battles against businesses like fishery companies in Federal Court to protect killer whales. One of their most notable cases which they won was against the company Kinder Morgan and their TransMountain Expansion through the Salish sea where these killer whales reside.
A petition led by Dr. Lance Barrett-Lennard, an alumni of UofG, proposed ideas for protecting killer whale populations. Suggestions included increasing chinook salmon in critical habitats. This can be achieved by eliminating commercial fishing in feeding areas important to the killer whales (Rainforest Conservation Foundation). Using various scientific models, they were able to prove if fisheries were closed, it would improve their populations (Rainforest Conservation Foundation). If measures were taken to reduce physical and acoustic disturbances by prohibiting commercial and recreational whale watching at critical times of the year would allow NRKW to forage food (Rainforest Conservation Foundation). As well, establishing 200m distance and speed reductions for whale watching vessels in key foraging areas would allow killer whales to freely hunt and not be driven away (Rainforest Conservation Foundation). Measures like such would gradually present an increase in killer whale populations and allow their species to thrive.
In all, many environmental groups and government agencies are understanding the impact of losing killer whale populations native to Canada. Experts like Dr. Barrett-Lennard and many other research collaborators used their experiences and scientific observations to draw out conservation plans which they presented to the government of Canada. They proposed emergency measures based on available science which Fisheries and Oceans Canada have been educated upon, resulting in an increased effort to preserve killer whale populations in Canada.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada. (n.d.). Population status update for the northern resident killer … https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2023/mpo-dfo/fs70-7/Fs70-7-2023-031-eng.pdf
Rainforest Conservation Foundation. (n.d.). Petition for an emergency order for the southern resident ... https://www.raincoast.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/SRKW-petition-for-Emergency-Order.pdf
finding footing in art & nature🦋🌿
This week’s post is about the interpretation of nature through art – I’ll be focusing less on how I interpret nature through art, and more about how I have come to find my footing in doing so.
A quotation from chapter 3 of the textbook (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018) really struck a chord with me for this topic. Talking about studying nature in schools, Burroughs (1916) said that it was:
“Too cold, too special, too mechanical; it is likely to rub the bloom off Nature. It lacks soul and emotion. It misses the accessories of the open air and its exhilarations, the sky, the clouds, the landscape, and the currents of life that pulse everywhere.”
I feel that many of us can relate to this excerpt, as did I. Rub the bloom off Nature.
It sounds silly, and I still sometimes feels pretty embarrassed by it, but I really feel like the driving force behind my choice of major (Zoology) was nature documentaries, photography, and Diane Fossey and Jane Goodall’s stories. The images on a TV screen of people out in the wild, so intimately and genuinely immersed in the beauties and intricacies of nature – that is what drove it home for me.
I can’t honestly say that I was thinking - primarily - about learning the ins and outs of statistical methods. Nor was I considering the how-to’s of data acquisition and manipulation, or even hypothesis formulating.
Realistically, I was thinking about how cool it would be to study a major that was defined by natural historians and explorers like Charles Darwin, or the people I saw on Nat Geo programs.
So… who am I to interpret nature through art? I’m someone in a (to some, surprisingly) technical, scientific major. Someone who didn’t necessarily know what they were signing up for, who was (naively) hoping for an experience akin to these creative interpretations. But I’m someone who has come to love these studies because they’ve immensely deepened the connection I’ve always felt to the beauty of nature. When I see a scenic landscape shot or a charming illustration of anything wild, I have so much more in my interpretive toolset than I ever did before. I can parse through the dramatic editing and enhanced colours to find a deeper meaning, one that is simultaneously more informed and more abstract.
The bloom may have been rubbed off a little, but now I can take steps to paint it back on.
Of course, this need not apply to members of the audience. As the hopeful interpreter, I’m fortunate to have this science + art lens, and it is indeed my responsibility to translate that dual perspective into a single, coherent, and cohesive one.
And how do I interpret the gift of beauty? Through that dual perspective.
One of Tilden’s (1957) Principles of Interpretation is that
“the chief aim of interpretation is not instruction, but provocation”
Philosophers have made attempts through millennia to articulate the importance of beauty. One particularly ephemeral type of beauty has been described as “the sublime”. Crudely, it has to do with the almost agonizing appreciation we feel when we see a mountainscape, the ocean, a sprawling forest – something naturally beautiful, perhaps chaotic, immense (notice that most philosophers can’t help but define it in terms of NATURAL beauty).
[ Among the Sierra Nevada, California (1868), Albert Bierstadt. ]
Part of the gift of beauty is in its interpretation; the self-reflection that compels us to ask
why is this sight making me feel this way??? and HOW?
Combining that stand-alone beauty with technical knowledge is a simple step we take after being inexplicably provoked by nature. A step towards appreciating, defining, putting our finger on the gorgeous gift that Mother Nature is, and then making our own creations to try to capture that beauty – kind of like how a painter might study a renowned artist by recreating their work. In this way, we gain some insight into how Mother Nature put all these elements together to make a creation so breathtaking.
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References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Sagamore Publishing.
Burroughs, J. (1916). Under the apple trees. New York, NY: William H. Wise & Co.
Tilden, F. (1957). Interpreting our heritage. Chapel Hill, NC: University of North Carolina Press.
Hi,
Burroughs’ quote about studying nature in school definitely resonates with a lot of us I’m sure. It is a disappointing reminder of the lack of formal education we receive when it comes to understanding and appreciating nature. During grade school, I can only remember a handful of times we were encouraged to explore and further learn and inquisite about nature outside of the designated lessons. During my years at university, I am glad I have the choice of delving deeper into my relationship with the natural world. I think your reasoning behind picking zoology as your major isn’t something to be embarrassed about. Your connection to nature through documentaries and key figures is inspiring to say the least. It definitely brings the hammer down on the idea that sometimes it's personal and emotional experiences with nature - even if it’s something on tv - that allows one to be passionate about understanding and preserving it.
Albeit, your experience in zoology isn’t what you expected, it raises an interesting point about the crossroad you’re at with science and art and how one can support the other. However, I hope it gives you comfort knowing you weren’t the only one in this situation. Previous to choosing my biological sciences major, I was under the impression I wouldn’t have to learn calculus and physics if I didn’t want to, which was not the case. Now that I am in third year, I am relieved that I can pick courses that pertain to what I am interested in learning. I hope that your major in zoology has provided the balance between the scientific parts and the more intimate understanding of nature that you initially wanted!
Art With Words
“Interpretation should instill in people the ability, and the desire, to sense the beauty in their surroundings - to provide spiritual uplift and to encourage resource preservation” (Beck et al., 2018). In the grand scheme of things, I am one of many nature interpreters who want to continue upholding and instilling people with the desire to sense beauty in their surroundings through art. Since there are many forms of art, it isn’t a hard thing to achieve. Instead, it's picking which artistic medium will help my ability to connect people with nature. I have always enjoyed taking pictures of natural beauty like the sunset or animals I may see. Within those images you see the sky turning mesmerizing colors while it casts shadows on the trees. This is how I interpret the everchanging gift of beauty because the sunset you saw today will not be the same tomorrow.
I believe that interpreting nature through art is a personal journey and it is very subjective depending on personal experiences that leave an impact on you. For instance, consider a morning hike I experienced in the Banff mountains. The sun was rising slowly, painting the landscapes with soft hues. I found myself surrounded by a serene stillness that could only be interrupted by the ruffling of leaves as the wind blew through them and the distant sound of birds. The cold mountain air filled my lungs and the dew covered grass sparkled under the morning light. In that moment, I felt a heartfelt connection to the natural world around me.
Granted, I didn’t follow all of Susan Strauss’ instructions when it comes to storytelling, but without showing you a single picture, I hope that I was able to paint an image in your head using my words. When I was younger, I would sit with my grandparents and urge them to tell me stories about their childhood and what their life was like back home. As I hadn’t seen their home and there were no pictures to share, they conveyed their sense of journey through expressions, gestures, and vivid imagery. Their storytelling was so immersive that it made me feel as if I were right there alongside them.
I think we often forget that storytelling is also a form of art. As Strauss once said, “in the world of interpretation, the job of the storyteller is to bridge the gap between human beings and the natural world.” When I create art inspired by my experiences, I don’t fixate on presenting the absolute truth. Instead, I dwell on how I can convey my genuine emotions and paint a pretty picture of the beauty around me. I carefully curate my words to make a sentence that would capture the essence of those moments and share the impact the experience had on my perception of the world. By doing this, I hope I am fulfilling my ability as a nature interpreter by bridging the gap between people and nature. As well, I believe it invites others to find and relate to nature through their own unique connection and appreciate the subjective beauty that nature holds.
I took this picture a little after 6 am while hiking :)
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Sagamore Publishing.
Privilege and the environment.
Hi everyone,
So far in this course, we've covered topics surrounding our future and aspirations in nature interpretation and what it means to us. I expected to continue this trend, exploring lighthearted topics and talking to my peers about why we all love nature. Opening this week's topic, I was surprised but excited to explore how privilege affects the interpretation of the world of nature. To me, privilege is the inherent advantages or disadvantages one receives from being born into a specific group; this could be their skin colour, gender, abled-bodied, or even the language one was brought up with.
With any interpretation role, being able to synthesize information for a wide variety of audiences is at the forefront of their responsibilities. Being fluent in English is a requirement for this job (In English-speaking countries) and can be a significant barrier to entry for an immigrant who lacks this ability. Additionally, being a nature interpreter in Canada often requires a post-secondary degree or at least a substantial amount of professional experience which can be often difficult to get without connections.
Another role that privileges play is having access to the natural spaces required to foster that understanding of nature required to be an effective interpreter. Individuals who grow up in less privileged families and communities may not have access to these natural spaces. As a nature interpreter who was privileged enough to grow up in a household where exploring our natural spaces came easily and going to university was never a financial struggle, it's important to recognize that privilege so I can use the skills I've learned to combat that and make sure my services are accessible for everyone.
Privilege affects all aspects of our modern world; understanding your own privilege and how to use that to better the lives of those around you is crucial for not only nature interpretation but all stems of our lives.
Hi Jackson, I agree with your definition of privilege as it doesn’t only depend on all the factors mentioned by McIntosh’s invisible knapsack. Privilege is also dependent on the opportunities individuals have been provided, like the advantage of acquiring proficiency in a language as universally recognized as English. It is definitely an obstacle many have to overcome in order to become a nature interpreter or even be able to access the same natural spaces as someone who has privilege. It attests to the fact mentioned in the textbook that underprivileged groups are apprehensive of exploring nature due to factors like communication. In my opinion, lack of communication is probably one of the greatest obstacles underprivileged groups have when it comes to nature exploration and interpretation. I would love to hear your thoughts on what you perceive as one of the primary concerns that contribute to the discomfort of underprivileged groups in engaging with nature interpretation, whether it stems from communication, economic considerations or other factors.
How privilege plays a role in nature interpretation.
As someone who has a deep love for the outdoors, I assume most of you share a similar appreciation for the beauty that nature offers, and that’s probably why you took this class, just like me! I find myself amazed by the beauty of nature simply just in my backyard. I am also fortunate to hold the privilege of owning a cottage, providing me with a retreat where I can immerse myself with nature. The ability to observe the changing seasons, listen to the trees blow in the wind, and witness wilderness provides a sense of comfort. I am also grateful for the opportunities I have been able to experience such as travelling. I have had the privilege to go to Mexico, Florida, British Columbia, and my favourite trip was being able to build a home for the less fortunate in Dominican Republic in high school. These experiences have not only exposed me to breathtaking landscapes of different countries but have also allowed me to see different cultures.
This week’s reading states, “Privilege can be viewed as "an invisible knapsack of unearned assets ... of special provisions, maps, passports, codebooks, visas, clothes, tools, and blank checks" (McIntosh in Noel, 2000, p. 116). In this analogy, the knapsack represents the numerous advantages and benefits that individuals, particularly privileged individuals, or groups, carry with them without even being aware of it. These privileges can be ingrained in society, giving certain individuals a ‘head start’ in life, just as we saw in the video “Social Inequalities Explained in a $100 Race”.
The concept of privilege plays a significant role in nature interpretation. I would consider myself to be very privileged, for example, I have been able to interpret nature in my own backyard, at my cottage, and even in different provinces and countries. I am lucky enough to have very hardworking parents, which allowed me to go on vacations like these. Not all individuals are lucky enough to experience trips like these. I am also fortunate enough to have access to education and I enjoy learning. Individuals with privilege have greater access to education such as environmental programs, nature reserves, and other experiences. One example is the Arboretum at the University of Guelph. We are so fortunate to have this beautiful Arboretum basically in our backyard! These opportunities that we have access to are examples of the ‘unearned assets in our invisible knapsack’ that some may take for granted. While working with my high school and travelling to Dominican Republic to build a house for a community in the mountains, I was able to appreciate the privilege I had to not only be there, but everything I have. On this trip I was able to interact with locals and live how they do for a week. Most of the locals don’t have cars, so we walked everywhere we needed to go. These long tiring walks up and down mountain hills actually gave me a sense of relaxation. I would observe the vibrant colours of flowers, or the large avocados growing on the trees. I was able to appreciate nature in a whole different way on this trip. I could go on and on about how amazing this trip was so here’s a few photos!
References
Noel, J. (2000). Notable Selections in Multicultural Education. Dushkin/McGraw-Hill.
YouTube. (2017, October 15). Social Inequalities explained in a $100 race - please watch to the end. thanks. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com
Hi Sydney,
I have to agree with your point there, I definitely took this class because I enjoy the beauty nature has to offer, especially in my backyard which is what I wrote about just a few weeks ago as my sense of place! It's great to hear about your connection with nature and the different perspectives nature has to offer.
Your experiences traveling and building homes in the Dominican Republic speaks to how much you appreciate the privilege you have to engage with nature and the diverse cultures it has allowed you to explore. I believe it's important to consider how privilege can impact your own experience but also how it impacts our ability to advocate for others who may not have the same opportunities as us. You’ve definitely inspired me with your dedication to building houses in the Dominican Republic and spending a couple of days in their shoes. It makes you appreciate the privilege you have, like the arboretum at the university as it is a great example of the education and opportunities privilege provides. As we move deeper into this conversation, I am curious to hear your thoughts on how we can bridge the gap between those who have access to experiences like yours and mine and those who may not. I enjoyed reading your blog and having this conversation! Keep it up :)
Privilege and Nature
When I think about the role privilege plays in nature interpretation, the first thing that comes to mind is the access one has to nature. Nature surrounds us everywhere, yet the experience of being in a national park in another city or being able to witness marine life in another country is distinct and not universally accessible. Thus, the opportunity to interpret nature in a different perspective is also not available to everyone as it depends on privilege. McIntosh describes privilege as “an invisible knapsack of unearned assets… of special provisions, maps, passports, codebooks, visas, clothes, tools, and blank checks” (McIntosh, 2000, p. 116). This metaphor encapsulates everything required to approach nature in a different perspective.
In my eyes, the definition of privilege is the ability certain groups of people have to freely engage in opportunities that are often taken for granted. I, myself have been guilty of taking opportunities for granted. If I were to unpack my own backpack, it would reveal that I am a first generation South Asian, middle class university student. Despite being part of a minority group, I am privileged enough to have the same opportunities as most Canadians with very limited barriers. I am lucky enough to possess the capability to explore nature as I benefit from a wealth of knowledge available at my fingertips through the internet and other means. As well, due to clothes, tools, and a Canadian passport, ensuring I can do so without any apprehension.
Privilege has definitely affected my interpretation of nature. One of these ways is through access to nature. Growing up with privilege can make it easy to overlook the challenges associated with accessing natural spaces like national parks which may require things like a passport or vehicle to access. Individuals who grow up with privilege may not consider their access to nature as a unique advantage, and they may not appreciate the gift of having easy access to green spaces, especially in comparison to those with lower socioeconomic status.
Cultural barriers can also affect the role privilege plays with nature interpretation. It influences how people see and understand nature, affecting their connection with the environment. For instance, my parents grew up in Punjab, India and both their families own farms and worked in the agricultural setting as they grew up planting crops and milking cows. Growing up in a rural area, they always had a deep appreciation for nature. Ecological sustainability was passed down through generations and allowed us as a family to actively contribute to conservation efforts and sustainable practices even as we live in the city today, far disconnected from the rural area my parents knew for most of their life.
I recognize the privilege I have today and the reason why I am able to immerse myself in order to interpret and engage with nature. Recognizing this privilege is essential to promote a more open conversation and a range of other ways we can create an egalitarian access to nature so others can also experience the same opportunities to enjoy the nature around us.
McIntosh, P. (2000). White privilege: Unpacking the invisible knapsack. In J. Noel's (Ed.). Guilford, CT. Dushkin/ McGraw-Hill.
