This week, I dive into the literature of swimming with journalist, author and Vogue columnist Nell Frizzell. Nell worked for a while as a lifeguard at the Hampstead Ladies’ Pond, which she wrote about for the Daunt books anthology, At the Pond, and she has written numerous articles about the joys of swimming outdoors. Her second book, The Panic Years, with an accompanying podcast, was out earlier this year. 

Stay tuned as we discuss writing and reading about swimming, water rituals, the most unlikely creatures spotted in the Hampstead Ponds and why Lord Byron would be the ultimate swimming companion, despite being dangerous to know.

Here are the books mentioned in this week’s episode:

The Panic Years by Nell Frizzell, book and podcast 

Turning by Jessica J Lee 

Salt on Your Tongue by Charlotte Runcie 

Under the Net by Iris Murdoch

At the Pond: Swimming at the Hampstead Ladies’ Pond by Nell Frizzell and others

You can follow Nell on Twitter and Instagram.

And follow me @AmberButchart, #MakingASplashPod to find out more about future guests and episodes.

*Please be aware that cold water swimming can be dangerous. Read and follow the advice at the Outdoor Swimming Society if you are new to it*

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