Review: Phosphorescence – On awe, wonder & things that sustain you when things go dark. By Julia Baird.
I’ll admit—reading this book was prompted by Julia Baird’s later work, Bright Shining: How Grace Changes Everything (2023), which I reviewed on this website previously. Although I’d had Phosphorescence for a while, it wasn’t until recently that I read it cover to cover, and I’m glad I did.
This book covers a broad spectrum of ideas and some similar topics to Bright Shining, from the wonder of phosphorescence in nature to the enduring power of friendship, resilience, and activism. It explores what sustains us through life’s darkest times and offers reflections that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Themes That Resonate
Activism and Legacy
In Chapter 6, The Activists’ Attic, Baird discusses how activism often builds on the unrecognised work of earlier generations. Often unknown and/or unrecorded. She refers to the work of the Suffragettes and how “…the history of women’s suffrage has not just been bonnets bobbing behind banners—remembering that the first official ‘wave’ was about suffrage for white women—or Indigenous women’s rights like Faith Bandler’s efforts leading up to the 1967 Australian referendum, and the systemic barriers women faced in gaining leadership roles, even in spaces like the church.
Baird’s reflections continue as she writes about legal attempts to keep women out of positions of power and authority in the church. This reminded me of the difficulties of women in the law, like the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg as depicted in the documentary RGB and the docudrama about her life, “On the Basis of Sex”.
After referring to other “battles,” she notes how “The lesson is: you don’t walk away until the work is done.”
Baird also raises an interesting question: “Where is the line between hoarding and preservation?” Reflecting on her own collection of archives—”nine boxes of clippings, newsletters, minutes, and court transcripts from work I did at university”—that” have travelled with her around the world.” She emphasises the importance of preserving stories often excluded from history, such as those of women, LGBTQI communities, and people of colour.
This is something I can relate to, having donated boxes of old LGB magazines to the WestPride archives and will no doubt eventually donate boxes of old minutes and other documents to the same repository. She also notes how “historically, archives have excluded the stories of women, of people of colour, of the LGBTQI communities, of those inhabiting peripheries.”. This, by extension, is about why archives, not just the “official” ones, are important.
The Power of Friendship
In Part III: Walking Each Other Home, subtitled The Art of Friendship: ‘I Am Here,’ Baird delves into the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships. She highlights the concept of Freudenfreude meaning rejoicing in another’s good fortune or success.
In terms of female friendships, she notes how one should “…carefully draw the brilliant, the decent, and the good-hearted near and love them fiercely. Shed the toxic and the small; show loyalty and honour to those you love. It’s not an accident; it’s purposeful. Stand by your friends and spend time with those who’d rather swill acid than hurt you.”
This advice isn’t exclusive to female friendships—it applies to all relationships. It reminded me of Rob Mills’ reflections in “Putting on a Show: Manhood, Mates and Mental Health” (to which I also wrote a review some time ago on this website), which referred to the need for guys to have good mates.
Resilience and Awe
Throughout the book, she also refers to an extended period of time, and with some detail about a series of related health problems needing multiple surgeries and other treatments. Related to this was how she was helped through these ordeals by various friends. Along with how others have developed resilience in the face of incredible difficulties and deprivations.
Apart from the more general observations about her searches for Phosphorescence in nature and the place of early morning (group) swims with others and how this uplifts her, this is an interesting, positive, and thought-provoking read (or listen as an audiobook) from a woman with a wide range of experiences who (based on her research PhD) justifiably calls herself “Doctor.”.
Why This Book Stands Out
What makes Phosphorescence unique is its blend of personal narrative, social commentary, and universal truths. Baird’s ability to weave stories of activism, friendship, and resilience with reflections on nature and awe makes this a deeply enriching read. Her writing is thoughtful and inspiring, encouraging readers to find light and joy even in the most difficult moments.
Whether you’re drawn to stories of personal triumph, interested in social change, or simply seeking a reminder of the beauty in the world, this book offers something for everyone.
My Final Thoughts on Phospherance
Phosphorescence is an uplifting, thought-provoking, and beautifully written book. Julia Baird’s reflections remind us of the importance of resilience, the power of connection, and the joy of finding light in unexpected places. It’s a read (or listen, if you prefer audiobooks) that leaves you feeling more grounded, more hopeful, and more appreciative of the wonders around you.
In many ways, the themes in Phosphorescence mirror the benefits of therapy. Just as Baird emphasises the value of supportive friendships, awe, and self-reflection, therapy provides a space to unpack life’s challenges and reconnect with what sustains you. It’s a reminder that resilience isn’t found in isolation—it grows through connection, intentionality, and leaning into the things that bring us joy and strength.
If you’re looking for information regarding our therapy services, click here.
