E. J. (Edmund James) Banfield

E. J. (Edmund James) Banfield
Edmund James Banfield (1852–1923) was an Australian journalist and author best known for his writings on nature and island life. After leaving his career in journalism due to illness, he moved to Dunk Island off the coast of Queensland in 1897, where he lived in isolation with his wife for over two decades. His most famous work, "The Confessions of a Beachcomber" (1908), chronicles his life on the island and his observations of the natural world. Banfield's writings captured the beauty of the Australian tropics and highlighted his deep appreciation for the environment and its wildlife.

Author's Books:


INTRODUCTION Does the fact that a weak mortal sought an unprofaned sanctuary—an island removed from the haunts of men—and there dwelt in tranquillity, happiness and security, represent any just occasion for the relation of his experiences—experiences necessarily out of the common? To this proposition it will be for these pages to find answer. Few men of their own free will seek seclusion, for... more...

IN IDLE MOMENT "'Are you not frequently idle?' 'Never, brother. When we are not engaged in our traffic we are engaged in our relaxations.'"—BORROW. On the smooth beaches and in the silent bush, where time is not regulated by formalities or shackled by conventions, there delicious lapses—fag-ends of the day to be utilised in a dreamy mood which observes and accepts the... more...

CHAPTER I IN THE BEGINNING Had I a plantation of this Isle, my lord— * * * * * I' the Commonwealth I would by contrariesExecute all things; for no kind of trafficWould I admit . . . riches, povertyAnd use of service, none. SHAKESPEARE How quaint seems the demand for details of life on this Isle of Scent and Silence! Lolling in shade and quietude, was I guilty of indiscretion when I babbled of my... more...