Searching for belonging in Wordsworth’s Lake District

Available for over a year

In her twenties Esther Rutter suffered an acute mental breakdown while living in Japan. After being sectioned, her recovery began when she took a job in the Lake District at Dove Cottage, the home of William and Dorothy Wordsworth. As her connection with the Wordsworths grew, so did her hopes for her own life. Esther has now written a memoir about this time, her book is called All Before Me: A Search for Belonging in Wordsworth's Lake District. This programme contains references to suicidal thoughts. If you are struggling emotionally, support is available internationally at https://www.befrienders.org and in the UK at bbc.co.uk/actionline We also heard from Dr Mike Burbridge, who told us about the music of Fritz and Paul Kalkbrenner and how it changed his life. If you have a song that has shaped you, or reminds you of an important moment in your life, we would love to hear your story. Get in touch: [email protected] or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707 Presenter: Emily Webb Producer: Helen Fitzhenry Photo: Esther Rutter Credit: Chris Scott