0
0
As I was sitting alone,
In the woods nearby
Watching the sky so lone
And the clouds go by
I watched the flowers
Unfurling themselves
And the raindrop showers,
In numbers of twelves
I saw the animals jumping,
Jumping around here and there,
And all the birds chirping
Somewhere, but I don’t know where
I was enjoying the skies
Sparkling with dashing light
Everywhere my mind and eyes
Found a very beautiful sight.
And when I turned around,
My heart gave a jump
For the thing that I found
Was like a pit of a dump
Where are the trees
Or the blooming flowers.
There is no rush of breeze
Nor the raindrop showers
I always wonder to myself,
What have we done?
To bring destruction ourselves
Upon our daughter and son
When I look backward,
I see trees put into condemn.
Whereas in my forward,
I see people planting them.
As I was sitting alone,
In the woods nearby
Sitting in the great unknown,
Watching as life passes by
I wonder what life is for.
And where to go to plan
Go to the world of nature, or
Go to the world of man.
But I cannot go to one land
For I do love them both
That’s why I go hand in hand
So as to keep my oath
Explanation of My Poem
Introduction
The poem “Hand in Hand” delves into the themes of nature, destruction, and the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world. It begins with a serene moment in nature, where the speaker finds solace in the woods, observing the sky, clouds, flowers, and raindrops. The imagery of unfolding flowers and showering raindrops conveys a sense of renewal and vitality.
Exploring Nature’s Beauty
The focus then shifts to the vibrant movements and harmonious chirping of animals and birds, highlighting the natural beauty and diversity of the environment. This section underscores the intricate tapestry of life in the natural world.
Juxtaposition of Destruction
However, the tone abruptly changes as the speaker turns around and encounters a desolate scene devoid of trees, blooming flowers, breeze, and raindrops. This stark contrast symbolizes the destructive impact of human actions on the environment, showcasing the loss and devastation caused.
Questioning Human Consequences
In this section, the speaker expresses wonder and introspection, questioning the consequences of human behavior. The rhetorical question, “What have we done?” reveals the poet’s concern regarding the negative impact of human actions. The contrasting imagery of trees being condemned in the past and people planting them in the future represents conflicting attitudes towards nature—those contributing to its destruction and those striving to restore and protect it.
The Dilemma of Choosing
The final stanza reflects the speaker’s dilemma of choosing between the natural world and the world of man. The phrase “the great unknown” suggests the vastness and mystery of both realms. The speaker acknowledges a deep love for both nature and humanity, desiring to embrace both worlds and maintain a delicate balance. The phrase “hand in hand” symbolizes the unity and coexistence of the two realms, as well as the speaker’s commitment to preserving the natural environment while engaging with society.
Literary Techniques
This section discusses the literary techniques employed in the poem. It emphasizes the vivid imagery used to depict natural scenes and the stark contrast between destruction and renewal. The poem utilizes personification, such as the sky “sparkling with dashing light” and the speaker’s heart giving a “jump” upon encountering the desolate sight. The repetition of the phrase “In the woods nearby” at the beginning and end of the poem creates a circular structure, highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the ongoing struggle to find harmony between humanity and the natural world.
Conclusion
“Hand in Hand” serves as a poignant reflection on the consequences of human actions on the environment. It emphasizes the need for balance, conservation, and our responsibility to protect the planet for future generations. The poem urges us to recognize the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, striving for harmony and preservation in a world where destruction and renewal coexist.
Therefore, Humans and Nature, Be United
