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The natural world's supremacy over humanity is an ever-present theme in literature, resonating through the ages. Land, devoid of rationale, exerts control over our lives, shaping our identities in profound ways. Despite mankind's persistent attempts to subdue nature, these efforts prove futile, as illustrated in Margaret Atwood's "Progressive Insanities of a Pioneer," Alden Nowlan's "The Bull Moose," and Dumont's "Not Just a Platform for my Dance." Each of these poems explores the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world, shedding light on the power dynamics at play.
While "The Bull Moose" and "Progressive Insanities of a Pioneer" emphasize the futility of resisting nature's dominance, "Not Just a Platform for my Dance" offers a perspective that acknowledges the potential harmony between humanity and the natural realm.
Alden Nowlan's "The Bull Moose" metaphorically portrays the separation of humans from nature, symbolizing the Bull Moose as nature itself and the observers as representatives of mankind. Nowlan paints a poignant picture of human detachment from the natural world, emphasizing how this detachment leads to a loss of essential human qualities.
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The poem highlights man's obliviousness to the magnificence of the Bull Moose, the symbolic "pole fenced pasture" representing the barrier between the two realms, and the formidable power embodied in the creature's roar. Ultimately, humanity awakens to the realization that they are not "shaggy and cuddlesome" but rather a "scaffolded king." The poem serves as a commentary on the arrogance of civilization, which attempts to confront nature with a self-righteous attitude.
Margaret Atwood's "Progressive Insanities of a Pioneer" delves into the civilized inclination to dismiss the supremacy of the natural world.
The poem vividly depicts the pioneer's dilemma, encapsulated in the lines, "In the darkness the fields / defend themselves with fences / in vain: / everything / is getting in." The pioneer, initially portrayed as a mere "point/ on a sheet of green paper," grapples with the vastness of the universe, yearning to escape. Despite the futile attempts to impose order on nature through cultivation, the ground responds with resistance, asserting its own aphorisms. The pioneer's profound sense of separation and isolation stems from his refusal to embrace a symbiotic connection with nature.
While "The Bull Moose" and "Progressive Insanities of a Pioneer" narrate tales of man versus nature, Dumont's "Not Just a Platform for my Dance" presents a contrasting perspective—one of cooperation and mutual benefit between humanity and the natural world. Dumont recognizes that land is more than a mere possession; it embodies the essence of identity. In her words, "this land is/ my tongue my eyes my mouth," emphasizing the inseparable union between humans and nature. By aligning with the natural order, Dumont finds spiritual, physical, and creative fulfillment. The poem celebrates the intricate beauty of the world, emphasizing that the land is not merely a stage for existence but a platform for profound experiences.
In conclusion, "Progressive Insanities of a Pioneer" and "The Bull Moose" both convey the message that nature surpasses humanity in power, and human attempts to conquer the natural world are destined to fail. However, "Not Just a Platform for my Dance" offers a refreshing perspective by highlighting the potential benefits of embracing and cooperating with nature. "The Bull Moose" lumbers into the pole-fenced pasture, where he faces mistreatment at the edge of civilization, symbolizing humanity's skepticism towards nature. The pioneer in "Progressive Insanities of a Pioneer" erects boundaries and stakes out a plot in an attempt to isolate himself from the unenclosed space, showcasing humanity's resistance to nature. Conversely, "Not Just a Platform for my Dance" celebrates the oneness of humanity and nature, recognizing the land as integral to identity and a source of spiritual, physical, and creative nourishment.
The Dominance of Nature: A Comparative Analysis of Poetry. (2016, Oct 13). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/man-vs-nature-essay
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