Tropic Days By: E. J. (Edmund James) Banfield (1852-1923)
Tropic Days by E. J. Banfield is a riveting memoir that offers readers a captivating glimpse into the author's extraordinary life on Dunk Island. Set against the backdrop of the idyllic Great Barrier Reef, this book takes us on a remarkable journey through the natural wonders of tropical Australia. Banfield's descriptive writing effortlessly transports the reader to the enchanting landscapes he encounters daily, painting vivid pictures of the vibrant flora and fauna that surrounds him. From breathtaking sunsets to the cacophony of tropical birdsong, every page is filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the splendor of nature. Moreover, Banfield's intimate observations of the island's wildlife lend a unique charm to this memoir. The author's genuine affection for the creatures he encounters is evident throughout, whether he is marveling at the playful antics of a family of scrub hens or describing the peculiar habits of the island's curious inhabitants. His passion for conservation and his determination to live harmoniously with nature are inspiring and leave a lasting impact on the reader. Banfield's reflections on his solitary life on Dunk Island also provide a profound insight into the metaphysical aspects of human existence. His contemplative musings on solitude, companionship, and the meaning of a simple life provoke deep thought and self-reflection. Through his introspective narration, the reader gains a profound understanding of the author's personal growth and the solace he finds in the rhythm of nature. While the charm of Tropic Days lies primarily in its rich descriptions and profound introspection, it must be noted that at times the pacing of the memoir can be a bit slow. Some readers may find themselves longing for a stronger narrative arc or more adventurous anecdotes. Nevertheless, Banfield compensates for this with his beautifully lyrical prose and his ability to capture the essence of island life. In conclusion, Tropic Days is a captivating memoir that will transport readers to an extraordinary place rich in natural beauty and introspective contemplation. E. J. Banfield's love for the tropical world shines through every page, making this book a highly recommended read for nature enthusiasts, those seeking a deeper connection with the natural world, or anyone looking to escape to a paradise where time seems to stand still. First Page: TROPIC DAYS (1918) BY E. J. BANFIELD AUTHOR OF "THE CONFESSIONS OF A BEACHCOMBER" AND "MY TROPIC ISLE" "Peace and silence. . . combined with the large liberties of nature." De Quincey TO MY BROTHER BEACHCOMBERS; Professing, Practising AUTHOR'S NOTE In my previous books the endeavour was to give exact if prosaic details of life on an island off the coast of North Queensland on which a few of the original inhabitants preserved their uncontaminated ways. Here is presented another instalment of sketches of a quiet scene. Again an attempt is made to describe not as ethnological specimens, but as men and women types of a crude race in ordinary habit as they live, though not without a tint of imagination to embolden the better truths. I thankfully acknowledge indebtedness to my friends Mr. Charles Hedley, of the Australian Museum (Sydney); Dr. R. Hamlyn Harris, Director of the Queensland Museum; and Mr. Dodd S. Clarke, of Townsville, N.Q., for valuable aid in the preparation of my notes for publication. DUNK ISLAND. CONTENTS PART I SUN DAYS. IN IDLE MOMENT ETERNAL SUNSHINE FRAGRANCE AND FRUIT THE SCENE SHIFTER BRACE PLANTS SHADOWS "SMILING MORN" ANCESTRAL SHADE QUIET WATERS "THE LOWING HERD" BABBLING BEACHES THE LOST ISLE PART II THE PASSING RACE... Continue reading book >>

Tropic Days By: E. J. (Edmund James) Banfield (1852-1923)

Tropic Days by E. J. Banfield is a riveting memoir that offers readers a captivating glimpse into the author's extraordinary life on Dunk Island. Set against the backdrop of the idyllic Great Barrier Reef, this book takes us on a remarkable journey through the natural wonders of tropical Australia.

Banfield's descriptive writing effortlessly transports the reader to the enchanting landscapes he encounters daily, painting vivid pictures of the vibrant flora and fauna that surrounds him. From breathtaking sunsets to the cacophony of tropical birdsong, every page is filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the splendor of nature.

Moreover, Banfield's intimate observations of the island's wildlife lend a unique charm to this memoir. The author's genuine affection for the creatures he encounters is evident throughout, whether he is marveling at the playful antics of a family of scrub hens or describing the peculiar habits of the island's curious inhabitants. His passion for conservation and his determination to live harmoniously with nature are inspiring and leave a lasting impact on the reader.

Banfield's reflections on his solitary life on Dunk Island also provide a profound insight into the metaphysical aspects of human existence. His contemplative musings on solitude, companionship, and the meaning of a simple life provoke deep thought and self-reflection. Through his introspective narration, the reader gains a profound understanding of the author's personal growth and the solace he finds in the rhythm of nature.

While the charm of Tropic Days lies primarily in its rich descriptions and profound introspection, it must be noted that at times the pacing of the memoir can be a bit slow. Some readers may find themselves longing for a stronger narrative arc or more adventurous anecdotes. Nevertheless, Banfield compensates for this with his beautifully lyrical prose and his ability to capture the essence of island life.

In conclusion, Tropic Days is a captivating memoir that will transport readers to an extraordinary place rich in natural beauty and introspective contemplation. E. J. Banfield's love for the tropical world shines through every page, making this book a highly recommended read for nature enthusiasts, those seeking a deeper connection with the natural world, or anyone looking to escape to a paradise where time seems to stand still.

First Page:

TROPIC DAYS (1918)

E. J. BANFIELD

AUTHOR OF "THE CONFESSIONS OF A BEACHCOMBER" AND "MY TROPIC ISLE"

"Peace and silence. . . combined with the large liberties of nature."

De Quincey

MY BROTHER BEACHCOMBERS; Professing, Practising

AUTHOR'S NOTE

In my previous books the endeavour was to give exact if prosaic details of life on an island off the coast of North Queensland on which a few of the original inhabitants preserved their uncontaminated ways. Here is presented another instalment of sketches of a quiet scene. Again an attempt is made to describe not as ethnological specimens, but as men and women types of a crude race in ordinary habit as they live, though not without a tint of imagination to embolden the better truths.

I thankfully acknowledge indebtedness to my friends Mr. Charles Hedley, of the Australian Museum (Sydney); Dr. R. Hamlyn Harris, Director of the Queensland Museum; and Mr. Dodd S. Clarke, of Townsville, N.Q., for valuable aid in the preparation of my notes for publication.

DUNK ISLAND.

CONTENTS

PART I SUN DAYS.

IN IDLE MOMENT ETERNAL SUNSHINE FRAGRANCE AND FRUIT THE SCENE SHIFTER BRACE PLANTS SHADOWS "SMILING MORN" ANCESTRAL SHADE QUIET WATERS "THE LOWING HERD" BABBLING BEACHES THE LOST ISLE

PART II THE PASSING RACE... Continue reading book >>

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