True Nature

In "True Nature," award-winning biographer Lance Richardson presents the first comprehensive portrait of Peter Matthiessen, a multifaceted figure in twentieth-century American literature known for his contributions as a novelist, naturalist, and Zen roshi. Through a blend of rich primary sources and extensive interviews, Richardson explores Matthiessen's adventurous life—from his rebellious early years to his groundbreaking environmental advocacy and spiritual journey—illuminating his struggles with privilege and his quest for deeper meaning. The biography captures how Matthiessen's unique insights linked ecological issues, racism, and social justice, making it a captivating narrative of a man deeply intertwined with both the natural world and the human condition.