Waterfall

by Hudson, Brian J.

• ISBN13: 9781861899187
• ISBN10: 1861899181
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-06-15
• Publisher: Reaktion Books

Summary

From Niagara Falls in the United States to Angel Falls in Venezuela, Victoria Falls in Africa, and Hannoki Falls in Japan, waterfalls provide some of the world's loveliest panoramas. With their glistening spray and deafening roar, these astonishing natural wonders attract hordes of people each year who seek out, with cameras in hand, these terrifying and sublime examples of natural beauty. While waterfalls have often been considered in terms of their picturesque qualities, their rich cultural background has been neglected. In Waterfall, Brian Hudson portrays these marvels in a new light. He explores the many myths and legends waterfalls have inspired in cultures ranging from Native American to Celtic and Indian, and how they have been depicted in art, literature, film, and music. He also examines their influence on architecture and landscape design, as manmade waterfalls begin to be a staple of parks, gardens, and backyard landscaping. Hudson also discusses the ecology of waterfalls and the conflict that arises from their importance as both a source of hydroelectric power and tourist attractions in many countries. As erosion takes its own toll, the additional environmental impacts of human exploitation could be devastating. A superb addition to the library of any nature lover, this beautifully illustrated book provides a fascinating look at the history and value of these stunning cascades of water.

Table of Contents

Preface	p. 7
Waterfall Lovers and Waterfalling	p. 9
Waterfalls: Birth, Life and Death	p. 17
The Allure of Waterfalls	p. 49
The Beautiful, the Sublime and the Picturesque	p. 63
Waterfalls of Passion, Fountains of Love	p. 77
Paradise and the Hereafter	p. 89
Waterfalls and the Creative Mind: Literature and Art	p. 97
Waterfalls and the Creative Mind: New Directions	p. 127
The Designed Landscape	p. 147
Power and Human Settlements	p. 165
Waterfalls and Tourism	p. 183
Waterfalls Lost, Despoiled and Threatened	p. 213
Notable Waterfalls	p. 222
References	p. 226
Select Bibliography	p. 235
Associations and websites	p. 238
Acknowledgements	p. 240
Photo Acknowledgements	p. 241
Index	p. 243
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