A Glimpse into the Mind of a Literary Luminary and Gardener
Jonathan Galassi, chairman emeritus of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, has long been a pivotal figure in the world of publishing. Over the course of his five-decade career, he has discovered and championed some of the most celebrated writers of our time, including Scott Turow, Anne Sexton, Jonathan Franzen, and Jeffrey Eugenides. However, what many may not know is that Galassi is also an accomplished poet. His latest work,The Vineyard: A Poem, is a testament to his literary versatility and deep connection with nature.
The poem, which takes place in his garden on Long Island’s North Fork, invites readers to slow down and appreciate the present moment. Through vivid imagery and reflective musings, Galassi captures the life cycle of his plants and the subtle interactions of his surroundings. The piece serves as both a personal meditation and a universal reminder that nothing lasts forever, and the only certainty is the current moment.
Some particularly poignant lines from the poem include:
“It’s no secret everything we had
is slipping away—last night, this morning,
before you noticed, because you noticed.
I go out and survey what got eaten,
what needs pruning, not to mention
everything that’s on my conscience:
those I didn’t love or loved in error;
those I hurt, the endless gyre.”
These lines reflect a deep emotional resonance, blending the natural world with introspection.
Galassi’s Quick Takes offer further insight into his gardening philosophy and preferences. From the books he relies on to the plants that inspire or repel him, his perspectives are both thoughtful and revealing.
Key Insights from Jonathan Galassi’s Quick Takes
-
First Garden Memory:Growing up in an old house with a legacy of gardening, Galassi was surrounded by peonies, apple orchards, and other botanical wonders. These early experiences shaped his unconscious understanding of garden design.
-
Favorite Garden Book:Dirr’s Hardy Trees and Shrubsis a recurring reference for Galassi, highlighting his appreciation for resilient plant life.
-
Garden Aesthetic:Galassi describes his style as one that emphasizes “cultivate sight lines,” suggesting a focus on visual flow and spatial awareness.
-
Plant That Makes Him Swoon:Red crocosmia and Bruggmansia are among his favorites, evoking a sense of primordial majesty.
-
Plant That Makes Him Run Away:Domesticated azaleas, especially when left untamed, are a source of dread for Galassi.
-
Favorite Go-To Plant:Salvia varieties are a staple in his garden, known for their vibrant color and hardiness.
-
Hardest Lesson Learned:Perennials die, and the garden is in constant flux. This lesson, while challenging, is also a source of wonder.
-
Unpopular Opinion:Galassi embraces poison plants like datura and monkshood, finding beauty in their danger.
-
Trend That Needs to Go:Neatness is not always desirable. Galassi believes gardens should belong to the plants, not the gardener.
-
Favorite Hack:Sometimes, the best approach is to “tear it out,” even if it’s difficult to do.
-
Bringing the Outdoors In:Galassi finds magic in viewing the garden from inside, where the landscape becomes part of the home.
-
Essential Element for Every Garden:Water, whether real or symbolic, is crucial. Additionally, private spaces add depth and character.
-
Favorite Hardscaping Material:Slate and graystone are preferred for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
-
Tool He Can’t Live Without:Knee pads are essential for protecting himself while working in the garden.
-
Favorite Nursery:Heritage Flower Farm in Mukwonago, Wisconsin, is a go-to for quality plants and seeds.
-
Wishlist Plants:Galassi dreams of more bearded iris, hollyhocks, and monkshood, along with more time to observe and nurture his garden.
-
Must-Visit Garden:Huntington Gardens in San Marino, California, is a top recommendation for its beauty and diversity.
-
Real Reason He Gardens:For Galassi, gardening offers an escape into an alternative universe, where tranquility and delight can be found amidst the ever-changing landscape.
