Tradition in the Literary Heritage Essay Example
Tradition in the Literary Heritage Essay Example

Tradition in the Literary Heritage Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (1020 words)
  • Published: June 25, 2018
  • Type: Essay
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The utilization of traditional nature imagery by various poets and its interpretation have been examined in a set of poems. Nature is typically viewed as a positive entity, representing the goodness of the Earth. It stands in stark contrast to human civilization, cities, technology, and the contemporary computer-driven world. The prevailing perception of nature is that of tranquility. However, nature is also employed to depict destructive calamities that are not caused by humans and are beyond their control. It is an untameable force, as exemplified by earthquakes, tsunamis, and hurricanes, which are known as "natural disasters." Furthermore, such cataclysms are commonly attributed to "mother nature," giving the impression of nature being a living being.

Nature is frequently employed to depict various aspects of a person's character, whether positive or negative. The term 'hu

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man nature' encompasses both benevolent and malevolent meanings. While human nature can embody qualities like generosity, love, and care, it can also signify selfishness, competitiveness, and evil. Poets and authors often turn to nature for inspiration and symbolism, utilizing its symbols and imagery to convey a wide range of ideas. The theme of nature serves as a means to describe human behavior and emotions, inspiring poets to generate and develop concepts. Numerous writers and poets have explored the natural world in their works. "Welcome to Spring" by John Lyly is a nature poem that delves into human nature and behavior.

The text addresses the topic of sinister human behavior, particularly focusing on a rape committed by a Greek King. It narrates a Greek myth revolving around the King's assault on his wife's sister and the subsequent removal of her ability to speak. This act i

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universally condemned as it exemplifies the darkest aspects of human nature. Moreover, this poem is categorized as a nature poem due to its utilization of natural imagery to depict the myth's occurrences. Throughout the poem, there are numerous allusions to birds and their songs, which serve as comforting and familiar elements. The poem can be divided into three distinctive sections. Initially, it portrays the somber events of the night, primarily highlighting the rape. However, subsequently, the tone of the poem shifts towards a more uplifting sentiment.

The poem takes place during both day and night, with the night's terrors being forgotten, representing an ignorance of nocturnal actions. The third and final part of the poem conveys the message that life starts anew, just as before. It focuses on a newfound sexuality and a strong desire for the approaching spring. Overall, the poem centers around human drives and desires, rather than portraying "real nature" or the natural world. It criticizes male desire and highlights the disregard for violence against women. Additionally, it critiques human behavior, portraying negative human nature rather than positive human nature depicted in William Blake's "The Echoing Green."

The poem portrays the positive aspects of human nature and behavior through the use of nature imagery. It presents a brighter view of humans, depicting children playing while elderly individuals reminisce about their own childhood. This highlights the innocence found in both children and the elderly, in contrast to the darker portrayal of human nature in 'Welcome to Spring', which explores our tendency to ignore violence. The poem is divided into three main sections, although they are arranged differently and carry distinct meanings. The first section depicts

the sunrise and the anticipation of play. The birds' loud singing symbolizes the welcoming of a new day and new life. This verse heavily incorporates imagery of birds and their songs, representing new beginnings akin to the poet's childhood. The second verse describes the poet himself as "Old john with white hair."

He reminisces his childhood described in verse one and recalls his past participation in games that are now replicated by the new children of the village. The name "Echoing Green" signifies the village green as the hub of village life, constantly used throughout generations. Verse three represents the poet's old age, symbolized by sundown, the end of life and the day. It signifies his proximity to death, yet offers solace through imagery of birds seeking rest in their nest. Despite addressing death and the end of life, this poem portrays a brighter side of human nature and maintains a positive outlook on life. In contrast, 'Welcome to Spring' explores the darker aspects of human nature. Both poems utilize nature to depict human behavior and emotions, albeit from different perspectives. 'Skating' by William Wordsworth, unlike the others, focuses on the portrayal of nature as a living entity, embodying Mother Nature. It does not delve into human nature but rather celebrates real nature.

The poem presents a portrayal of Mother Nature's power and force through dark imagery. The poet personifies nature, attributing conscious thought and intelligence to it. Instead of focusing on human emotions, the poet describes nature's emotions and its dominion over humanity. The poet expresses the belief in the sacredness and preciousness of everything. Furthermore, the poem recounts a series of events in which Mother

Nature revealed itself to the poet. Unlike other symbolic poems, this one adopts a more realistic style and presents itself truthfully. It reads like an autobiography, narrating the poet's encounters with nature. The poem employs three main images - light, dark, and sound - to depict Mother Nature as a sentient being rather than an inanimate object. Through the creation of light and sound, Mother Nature is imbued with life-like qualities.

This poem aims to exemplify the immense power possessed by Mother Nature and her uncontrollable nature. It portrays Mother Nature as a caretaker, embodying both the qualities of a person and a mother who protects her children, which in this case represents the world. The poet, William Wordsworth, intends to convey his deep connection with Mother Nature, drawing inspiration from his upbringing where he spent much of his time surrounded by nature, which he perceives as his nurturing 'mother'. These poems and their respective poets employ diverse styles of symbolism and imagery to portray nature in both human and organic forms while conveying the emotions experienced by the poet.

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