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The book is a poetic study of half light. From Astraeus (god of the dark) to zeitgebers (external cues plants rely on to synchronise their biological clock) there's something to learn on every page.
The central idea is that twilight is a magical and secret time. Coulthard contends that while twilight exerts a profound influence on the human psyche, we have grown blind to its nuances, hidden behind closed doors and desensitised by the glare of electric light.
But under the cover of darkness, the night-blooming cereus and moonflower unfurl their petals, releasing scents that beckon nectar-seeking moths, which in turn become prey for hunting bats.
Blending natural history, folklore and memoir, Coulthard reveals twilight as a vital, liminal force that has inspired awe for millennia and still has the power to illuminate our daily lives.
Coulthard has a smallholding and her husband runs a landscape gardening company, Circle Garden Services.
Lia Leendertz's practical guide The Twilight Gardener has been published at a similar time, indicating a trend to get more out of outdoors, perhaps as people spend more time in the office again after the work at home-led trend during after the pandemic.
The book is a restorative read that argues for a slower pace of life. By reclaiming these moments between day and night, she suggests we can find a sense of continuity in an increasingly fragmented world. Whether you are a seasoned horticulturalist or an urban backyard gardener, this book serves as a reminder that the best parts of the day are often the ones we spend in the dark. It is an essential companion for the modern soul seeking a quiet revolution.
