Introduction

In 2004 Orion Press published a collection of three essays by Terry Tempest Williams in a small book illustrated with paintings by Mary Frank. The Open Space of Democracy proved so popular the first printing sold out very quickly. In the essays Williams tries to define how we can break down the partisanship and polarization in our society so that we can come together to solve the political and environmental problems which she believe threaten our democracy and our land. “I do not think we can look for leadership beyond ourselves. I do not think we can wait for someone or something to save us from our global predicaments and obligations. I need to look in the mirror and ask this of myself: If I am committed to seeing the direction of our country change, how must I change myself?”

President Jimmy Carter said "Terry Tempest Williams equates the majesty of our nation's wild places with the essence of America's democracy. Her inspiring essays are thought proving reminders of the responsibility each of us has to protect and defend these precious gifts."