Circles in a Forest

Circles in a Forest by Dalene Matthee is a deeply evocative novel set in the unique landscape of the Knysna Forest in South Africa. First published in 1984, the book tells the story of Harkie, a young boy, and his relationship with the majestic forest and its people, including his father, who works as a woodcutter, and the close-knit community living in the forest’s shadow.

The novel explores themes of conservation, the natural world, and the tension between human development and nature. It paints a vivid picture of the beauty and the threat to the forest, reflecting on how the forest’s destruction through logging is intertwined with the personal and social struggles of the characters. The Knysna Forest, an ancient and mystical place, plays a central role in the narrative, almost becoming a character in its own right.

Through Circles in a Forest, Matthee draws attention to the conflict between the exploitation of nature and the need to preserve it. Her writing captures the complex relationships that people have with the environment, showing how their livelihoods depend on the land but also the growing realization that the forest’s survival is crucial for future generations.

The novel is part of Matthee’s broader body of work that focuses on the intersection of humanity and nature, and it is particularly known for its evocative descriptions of the South African wilderness. It’s a significant book in the context of South African literature, highlighting the challenges of preserving natural beauty while grappling with the socio-economic realities of the time.