What the Stones Remember: A Life Rediscovered

What the Stones Remember: A Life Rediscovered is an exquisitely written memoir by the poet Patrick Lane filled with reflections on memory, identity, and healing. Throughout, Lane intertwines his childhood experiences in the wilderness of British Columbia with his present life as a recovering alcoholic. Through vivid recollections, he delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the impact of addiction, and the redemptive qualities of nature. The narrative unfolds in his garden, a sanctuary that mirrors his path to sobriety and personal growth, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the transformative power of nature and memory.

Readers will find solace in Lane’s lyrical prose as he navigates the interconnectedness of all living things, offering insight into the resilience of the human spirit. The book provides a meditative reflection on the cycles of life, loss, and renewal, encouraging readers to embrace the beauty and pain of their own journeys. Lane’s narrative serves as a reminder that healing is possible, and that the past, while unchangeable, can inform and enrich the present. This evocative memoir invites readers to reflect on their own lives, promising a deeply moving experience that resonates long after the final page. Lane’s poignant storytelling makes What the Stones Remember a must-read for those seeking understanding and connection through the lens of nature’s enduring beauty.

Considered to be one of the finest poets of his generation, Patrick Lane has authored more than twenty-five books of poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and children's poetry. He has received most of Canada's top literary awards and a number of grants and fellowships from the Canada Council for the Arts. His writing appears in all major Canadian anthologies of English literature. His gardening skills have been featured in the Recreating Eden television series. Lane has been a writer-in-residence at the University of Toronto, Concordia University in Montreal, the University of Ottawa, and the University of Alberta. He presently teaches part-time at the University of Victoria. He lives in British Columbia, with his wife, the poet Lorna Crozier.