As a dedicated nature writer, I strive to nurture a profound connection with the natural world. Observing birds, exploring with children, and discovering beetles beneath fallen logs is what I cherish. Nature embodies complexity and wonder; while I appreciate its beauty, I have never deemed it sacred or considered my relationship with it spiritual.

Yet, current trends indicate I might be overlooking something significant.

The term “nature connectivity” may sound idealistic, yet it is bolstered by a growing body of research. A 2025 study claims that increased feelings of “nature connection” and “oneness with nature” correlate with elevated spirituality and skepticism regarding “science over faith.” Such findings may astonish many in the natural sciences, and they certainly surprised me, but this notion resonates within recent nature-focused literature.

While ancient druids revered nature, cultivating sacred groves of mistletoe and oak, today’s enchantment often unfolds in the nature section of a bookstore, nestled between gardening and self-help. Many of us experience our connection to nature through the act of writing. We become surrogate birders, second-hand botanists, and armchair adventurers. This is perfectly acceptable; life is hectic, and most reside in urban or suburban settings. One of humanity’s great gifts is our ability to be transported through written words to the depths of forests and heights of mountains.

The real concern lies not in how we connect with nature, but in our perception of what we are connecting to. Nature isn’t a fantasy; it occupies the same earthly realm as us, and we are inherently part of it. When viewed through a scientific lens, the natural world remains awe-inspiring and captivating. It is perplexing to separate the beauty of science from a genuine appreciation of nature.

We might benefit from reevaluating our eagerness to extract lessons from nature. Is it possible to learn from moss about unity or understand the repelling forces of grass? Recent naturalists suggest fungi can help us grasp the cycle of life. However, we can also learn troubling lessons from shoebills about the harsh realities of nature, such as expelling weak young or manipulating hosts in dire ways. Seeking wisdom from nature may feel just as rational as consulting ChatGPT for guidance—both resources have extensive insights. Perhaps true enlightenment lies in discovering lessons within ourselves.

Then arises the timeless query: What role do humans play in this ecosystem? Some assert that nature writers need to practice silence. Yet the uncomfortable reality is that all writers appreciate their own voices. We must strike a balance between experiencing the external world and what transpires within us. Both perspectives hold immense value, and the best nature writers skillfully navigate these frontiers, reporting with clarity, expertise, and sensitivity. Broadening the definition of “outside” to include diverse human experiences enriches our narratives.

I hope to see nature writing flourish, embracing its imperfections. I envision it evolving into a richer, more intricate, interdisciplinary tapestry that reflects the dynamic nature of our world, whatever that encapsulates—our realities, the living environment, and our place within it.

Richard Smith I am the author of Jay, Beech, Limpet.