Why I Write
The mission of Field Notes
Beams of golden sunlight illuminate esoteric truths written on distant mountain sides for those who would see it. The gentle breath of wind moving through treetops whispers sublime secrets for those who listen. The natural world is profound. There are infinite uncharted layers to this life, and I want to explore them. I suspect that you sense this as well, and this is what brought you here.
Welcome to Field Notes!
This is not a newsletter. Field Notes is a journey of exploration. I’m Erik Hogan and I have experienced much in this life. I seek to earn a voice by confronting hardship, uncertainty, and peril. I’ve seen death, and also the first breath of new life. Through sacrifice, I have had glimpses of the sacred wisdom of nature.
I don’t have the answers. In Field Notes I seek them. I convey my experiences and insight through artistic photography, creative words, and film. Art speaks to the soul, and perhaps through my attempts at it you will see some truths of your own.
Backpacking and landscape photography are synergistic pursuits. As I become more skilled as a photographer, I am driven to seek more remote locations away from crowds and accessible only on foot. As I become a more accomplished backpacker, I am called to improve my knowledge of photography to meet the demands of the austere conditions I explore. The combination of these two disciplines comes to a vastly richer experience than either one alone.
In Field Notes I write a lot about the backpacking adventures I take. These stories include the photographs I make along the way. More recently, I have begun making experiential films of these journeys. Occasionally, I branch out to write creatively or to explore other aspects of nature and life photographically and philosophically.
I would be grateful for your company on this path. As a part of the community here I encourage you to share your own insights, earned on your own journeys. Together we will light the way.
In May of 2024 I thru hiked the 76 mile Foothills Trail in South Carolina. Get started by reading the adventure series-
In addition to the Adventure Stories category, you will find sections on the Field Notes homepage for Waterfall Chasing, Field Notes Film, and Artful Words and Philosophical Hatchetwork. Here are some past examples of these creative words, film, and photos-
Photopoems
You may also view my photography here-
or find me on Instagram or YouTube-
Love what you’re doing here Eric. I worked in emergency services for many years too and I think it’s no coincidence that the things you experience eventually start pulling you towards pursuits such as this. Just subscribed! If you get a chance, check out what I am doing @WildLight ☺️
I'm excited to hear more from you. Best of luck on your journey.