013 - Mountain - Barriers

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013 - Mountain - Barriers

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The Desert by John Charles Van Dyke, published in 1901, paints a vivid and poetic portrait of the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest. With words that resonate with beauty, Van Dyke declares, What land can equal the desert with its wide plains, its grim mountains, and its expansive canopy of sky! As a cultured art historian, he finds sublimity in the deserts lonely desolation, challenging the perception of previous generations that saw it merely as a wasteland. His conservationist perspective feels remarkably modern, as he asserts, The deserts should never be reclaimed; they are the breathing spaces of the west and should be preserved forever. Captivated by the shifting colors of the sky, hills, and sand, as well as the enchanting mirages, he also honors the often-overlooked wonders of nature—cacti, greasewood, desert wildlife, and the vibrant winged life of birds and insects. With a philosophical touch, he reflects, Not in vain these wastes of sand ... simply because they are beautiful in themselves and good to look upon whether they be life or death. This reading of Van Dykes The Desert will resonate with anyone who finds beauty in fiery sunrises or the resilience of weeds pushing through pavement cracks. (Summary by Sue Anderson)

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