"The Conservationist" is a novel by South African author Nadine Gordimer, published in 1974. The story revolves around Mannie, a wealthy landowner in South Africa, who grapples with the complexities of his relationship with the land and the people who inhabit it. The narrative explores themes of environmentalism, social justice, and the impact of apartheid on both nature and society. The novel is set against the backdrop of the South African landscape, highlighting the tension between conservation efforts and the realities of a divided nation. Through Mannie's experiences, the book delves into the moral dilemmas faced by those who seek to protect the environment while navigating the socio-political challenges of their time.