The Instant

Building on the acclaim of her previous work, Amy Liptrot returns with The Instant, a transcendent memoir that beautifully interlaces themes of nature, isolation, and human connection. Seeking to escape the solitude of her life on Orkney Island, Amy makes a bold decision and books a one-way flight to Berlin. In the pulsating heart of the city, she finds herself renting a loft bed in a shared flat, and her days begin to unfurl in unexpected, captivating ways.

The Instant captures the essence of Amy's transformative year in Berlin. As she navigates the chaos and vibrancy of urban life, she explores the city's hidden wildlife, uncovers its historical layers, and finds moments of serenity amidst the urban sprawl. The narrative is a delicate balance of introspection and outward exploration, illustrating the cyclical nature of existence through the cycles of the moon and the migratory patterns of birds.

Amy's journey is also one of personal discovery and emotional vulnerability. Through the screen of her phone, she delves into the digital realm, searching for work and love. Yet, it is through these virtual connections and real-life encounters that she experiences the intoxicating and sometimes destructive power of love and lust. Her story is one of surrender and resilience, offering readers an intimate glimpse into a pivotal chapter of her life.

With lyrical prose and profound insight, Amy Liptrot's The Instant is a testament to the healing power of nature and the enduring quest for human connection in an increasingly digital world. This evocative work was shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing and became a Sunday Times Bestseller, affirming Amy's place as a leading voice in contemporary nature writing.