This book by the distinguished literary scholar John Beer offers a new interpretation of D. H. Lawrence's works during his lifetime, from his talent as a young writer to the continuing genius of his later work, and concentrating on his exceptionally acute powers of observation, both human and natural. The book shows how Lawrence's writing was based on his early career as a teacher of scientific subjects - particularly those concerning physical life. Lawrence's depiction of human beings often dwelt on subconscious motivations of which they themselves were unaware while he himself would concentrate on describing the vividness of phenomena in a manner that emphasized their semi-human nature.
Covering Lawrence's fiction, essays and poetry, John Beer pays particular attention to the writer's study of botany and the natural sciences generally, and their relevance to the idea of organic form. This is an essential read for all students and scholars of Lawrence.