Clouds: nature and culture

Clouds have been objects of delight and fascination throughout human history, their fleeting magnificence and endless variety having inspired scientists and daydreamers alike.

Described by Aristophanes as 'the patron goddesses of idle men,' clouds and the ever-changing patterns they create have long symbolised the restlessness and unpredictability of nature, and yet they are also the source of life-giving rains.

In this book, Richard Hamblyn examines clouds in their cultural, historic, and scientific contexts, exploring their prevalence in our skies as well as in our literature, art, and music.