“John Muir’s ‘My First Summer in the Sierra’”

“John Muir’s ‘My First Summer in the Sierra'”

January 29, 2024 663 Views

During the last semester before graduation, I had the opportunity to explore various works by different authors through a course called “Understanding Ecological Literature” at Sungkyunkwan University’s Department of English Literature. While I wished to read all the books in their original language, time constraints due to both coursework and job preparation led me to frequently rely on translated versions. Despite this limitation, I appreciated the chance to encounter a diverse range of literary works during my time at school.

“John Muir, a Representative of American Naturalists”

John Muir, often considered alongside Henry David Thoreau, is a prominent figure in American naturalism and a pioneer of the 20th-century environmental conservation movement. With over 300 essays, articles, and more than ten authored works, he played a significant role in designating areas such as Yosemite, Sequoia, and the Grand Canyon as national parks. His contributions have earned him the title “Father of the National Parks” in the United States.

“My First Summer in the Sierra: A Book. about Life in Yosemite”

The content of the book, “My First Summer in the Sierra,” bears a striking resemblance to Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden.” In this narrative, John Muir accepts an invitation from Mrs. Delaney, the owner of a flock of sheep, to accompany them as they journey through the Sierra Nevada mountains. From June 3rd to September 22nd, he documents his daily experiences, ultimately compiling them into a book.

The translated version I read had a substantial length, around 270 pages. The narrative primarily focuses on Muir’s vivid descriptions and admiration for the natural landscapes. While the absence of a gripping storyline may lead to occasional boredom, the advantage lies in the reader’s ability to feel as though they are personally witnessing the awe-inspiring scenes described by the author. Although Muir’s observations and the reader’s imagination may differ, the book provides an opportunity to imagine the magnificent wonders of nature.

One notable scene that injects a sense of urgency into the narrative occurs when Muir intuitively senses the arrival of a long-time friend and embarks on a journey to find them. This adds an element of suspense, leaving readers curious about whether his intuition is correct and how the story will unfold.

“Professor Kim Won-jung’s Thoughts – Sungkyunkwan University”

Towards the end of the book, there is a piece written by Professor Kim Won-jung, who taught the course “Understanding Ecological Literature” and participated as one of the translators alongside Lee Young-hyun. Professor Kim shares that he intentionally visited Yosemite in the United States to fully understand the context for translating this book. While recognizing the temporal gap between Muir’s experiences in 1869 and his own, he emphasizes the importance of capturing the original author’s sentiment to the fullest extent.

“My First Summer in the Sierra” is not a book filled with thrilling content or dramatic storytelling. Instead, it consists of contemplative essays, providing a loose narrative structure centered around Muir’s day-to-day experiences in Yosemite. The slow pace and lack of a compelling plot may lead to occasional monotony, but the book offers readers a chance to reflect on various aspects of life.

In the fast-paced world, the book serves as a momentary escape, allowing readers to appreciate nature and observe the lives of those living within it. Despite its tranquil nature, the book leaves behind ample food for thought.

“My First Summer in the Sierra”