The Worm Forgives the Plough

**The Poet among modern ecologists** - *The Times*

During the Second World War, John Stewart Collis left his comfortable life as an academic to work on the land for the war effort. His account of this time perfectly captures the city-dweller's naivety and wonder both at the workings of nature and the toughness of life on a farm. Collis's thoughtful curiosity leads him to explore a broad variety of subjects - from humorous sketches of the characters he works alongside to beautifully written pieces such as *Contemplation Upon Ants*, *The Mystery of Clouds*, *Colloquy on the Rick* and celebrations of the earthworm, the pea and potato.

Includes *While Following the Plough* (1946) and *Down to Earth* (1947).

Cover illustration by Angie Lewin.