NF

204 pages

Matthiessen, a truly gifted writer, had an extraordinary ability to transport his readers into the heart of his stories. As I delved into the pages of this particular work, I found myself completely immersed in the description of this frozen land.

With his vivid and detailed prose, Matthiessen painted a picture so realistic that I could almost feel the bitter cold seeping through my bones.

The way he described the harsh winds, the snow-covered landscapes, and the desolate silence of the frozen tundra made it seem as if I was standing right there, experiencing it all firsthand.

His words had a magical quality that allowed me to connect with the environment on a deeper level, making me appreciate both the beauty and the brutality of this unforgiving place.

Reading about this frozen land under Matthiessen's guidance was an unforgettable experience that left me with a newfound respect for the power of nature and the talent of this remarkable writer.

He could have subtitled the book 'Birds of Antarctica', which would have provided readers with a clear indication that his voyages were centered around ornithology.

However, all the detailed bird information eventually became tiresome. Fortunately, Matthiessen salvages the book by including scathing mini-diatribes against the government and corporate entities that are despoiling the earth.

His thoughts regarding the impact of Antarctica are not only introspective but also philosophical and life-affirming.

It is not merely about the physical journey but rather about what that journey elicits within a person.

This aspect adds a deeper layer of meaning to the book, making it more than just a collection of bird-related facts and observations.

Matthiessen's ability to intertwine his environmental concerns with his personal reflections makes the book a thought-provoking and engaging read.

Despite the initial tedium of the bird information, the overall message of the book leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Matthiessen's account of his journey to the Seventh Continent is truly captivating and almost impossible to put aside.

As is his customary style, he combines poetic descriptions that paint vivid pictures in the reader's mind with in-depth discussions of scientific and factual details.

I had the pleasure of reading this book prior to my own trip to Antarctica, and once I started, I simply couldn't part with it.

The writing is absolutely gorgeous, transporting the reader to the icy landscapes and unique ecosystems of Antarctica.

Matthiessen's ability to blend the beauty of the natural world with scientific knowledge makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in Antarctica or nature writing in general.

It not only provides valuable information but also evokes a sense of wonder and awe for the frozen continent.

Whether you are planning a trip to Antarctica or simply want to explore this distant and mysterious place through the pages of a book, Matthiessen's story is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The approach adopted in this work is indeed interesting.

However, it is marred by an abundance of mistakes. If one has had the privilege of visiting Antarctica or, even worse, if one works there every summer season, every year, then reading this becomes a hilarious experience.

The most amusing aspect is being acquainted with some of the individuals described within the book. It's important to note that all are contemporary, and perhaps their names were altered for the sake of privacy.

It is quite astonishing that a book riddled with so many errors managed to be published by National Geographic. This calls into question the editorial standards and the vetting process that should have been in place to ensure the accuracy and credibility of the content.

One would expect a publication of such repute to uphold a higher level of quality control.

Good is a simple yet powerful word. It can describe a wide range of things, from a delicious meal to a kind-hearted person. When we say something is good, we are expressing our approval and satisfaction with it.

We often use the word good to describe our experiences. For example, we might say "I had a good day at work" or "That was a good movie." It can also be used to describe people. A good friend is someone who is loyal, trustworthy, and always there for you.

Good can also have a moral connotation. When we say that someone is a good person, we mean that they have strong moral values and do the right thing. In this sense, good is closely related to concepts like kindness, honesty, and integrity.

In conclusion, good is a versatile and important word that we use in many different contexts. It allows us to express our positive feelings and evaluations, and it plays an important role in our understanding of the world around us.

This is a truly superb book!

It offers an abundance of great information on the wildlife of Antarctica. You'll learn about the unique species that inhabit this harsh and beautiful continent, from the adorable penguins waddling around to the majestic whales swimming in the frigid waters.

But it's not just about the facts. The author has also crafted beautiful prose that vividly describes the mesmerizing characteristics of Antarctica. You'll feel as if you're right there, experiencing the vastness of the ice sheets, the purity of the snow, and the otherworldly beauty of the aurora australis.

Whether you're a nature lover, a geography enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a captivating read, this book is sure to delight and inspire you.

I have a longing deep within my heart. I want to go there - to the ends of the earth - with PM. The thought of embarking on such a journey with PM is both exciting and thrilling.

Imagine the beautiful landscapes we would encounter along the way. From vast deserts to snow-capped mountains, from lush rainforests to serene beaches. We would experience different cultures, taste unique cuisines, and make memories that would last a lifetime.

PM is someone special to me, and sharing this adventure with him would make it even more meaningful. We would support each other, encourage each other, and grow together during this journey.

Although the idea of going to the ends of the earth may seem far-fetched, it is a dream that I hold dear. I hope that one day, this dream will come true, and I will be able to go there - to the ends of the earth - with PM.

Matthiessen's writing is truly remarkable for its visual quality.

Although this is a rather calm read that focuses more on vividly describing the arctic than on captivating a reader who might require more plot or character development to be engaged, many of the passages are simply intoxicating.

When reading this work, it often gives the impression of watching a documentary, with images scrolling by one after another. The narrative zooms in on various creatures and phenomena, offering brief yet fascinating explorations.

I must admit that there were times when I craved something more - perhaps more depth in the characters or a stronger sense of progression. However, this book has a unique charm that has the power to calm the outside world and draw the reader in, allowing them to sink deeper and deeper into its pages as they continue reading.

All things considered, I doubt that this will ultimately become my favorite among his works. Nevertheless, I am glad to have had the opportunity to read and explore it, as it has provided me with a unique and memorable experience.

If I wasn't traveling to Antarctica, I'm not sure I would have endured this book.

However, as travel preparation, it provides a great little peek into the wild and bird life. It also offers a significant amount of exploration history and some facts about two of his voyages.

With my upcoming travel in mind, I believe I have learned a fair amount about Antarctica.

This book has given me a better understanding of the unique ecosystem and the brave explorers who have ventured there before.

It has piqued my interest and made me even more excited to experience the beauty and harshness of Antarctica for myself.

Although the book may not be everyone's cup of tea, for those preparing to visit this remote and fascinating continent, it can be a valuable resource.

It has helped me to set the stage and gain some initial knowledge that will enhance my travel experience.

I look forward to seeing if the real Antarctica lives up to the expectations set by this book.

Almost lyrically written, this chronicle of a sea voyage in the Antarctic Sea is truly lovely. It offers a wealth of good information on birds and geology, which is punctuated with fascinating anecdotes from historical voyages. The author has managed to bring the beauty and mystery of the Antarctic Sea to life in a vivid and engaging way. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or an armchair adventurer, this book is sure to captivate you. It takes you on a journey through the icy waters, introducing you to the unique wildlife and geological formations that can be found there. The anecdotes from historical voyages add an extra layer of interest, giving you a glimpse into the past and the brave explorers who first ventured into this unknown territory. Overall, this is a great one for the armchair traveler who wants to experience the beauty and wonder of the Antarctic Sea without leaving the comfort of their own home.

Matthiessen is widely renowned for his remarkable works that span across various fields such as birds, animals, ecology, and philosophy. However, this particular piece is a bit distinct from the other works of his that I have perused. It doesn't deeply explore his philosophical musings.

Matthiessen pens his accounts with great passion, especially when it comes to the numerous Antarctic birds and whales. He vividly recounts his multiple trips to Antarctica, with a particular focus on two major expeditions. The first journey was from Tierra del Fuego in South America to the Antarctic Peninsula, and the second was from Tasmania to the Ross Sea. Additionally, he meticulously outlines the history of Antarctic exploration, with a special emphasis on the voyages of Shackleton, Scott, and Amundsen, and their significant contributions to this field.

Environmental and ecological issues are also meticulously examined in this work. Topics such as global warming, the reduction of the polar icecap, rising sea levels, the controversial 'scientific' whaling by the Japanese, over-fishing of the Antarctic toothfish, as well as historic whaling and penguin culling, and the arduous path to recovery from those dark times are all explored in detail.

This may not be the most fast-paced read, but it is undoubtedly thorough and thought-provoking. It offers a comprehensive and in-depth look at the Antarctic region, its wildlife, history, and the pressing environmental challenges it faces.

Overall, I would rate this book three and a half stars, rounded down.

Peter Matthiessen once again presents a remarkable travel memoir.

In "End of the Earth", he transports the reader to the untouched world of the Southern Ocean. Here, one can witness penguins waddling about, seabirds soaring through the sky, and other fascinating marine life. The blue-white icebergs and lonely mountains add to the breathtaking scenery.

Matthiessen employs concise prose to描绘 the vast ocean and the wildlife that survives in its cold and harsh environment. He also provides an engaging summary of Antarctic exploration and offers insights into the natural history of this seventh continent.

For those who enjoy traveling from the comfort of their own homes and are eager to explore a rarely seen corner of the world, this book is an absolute must-read. It allows readers to embark on a virtual journey and experience the beauty and wonder of the Antarctic region.