Mary Olivers Wild Geese And The Soft Animal Of Soul
The world of poetry is a vast and wondrous place, full of beauty, wisdom, and insight. One of the most beloved and celebrated poets of our time is Mary Oliver, whose work has touched the hearts and minds of readers around the world. In this article, we will explore one of her most famous poems, "Wild Geese," and delve into the themes and symbolism that make it so powerful.
The Power of Nature
Mary Oliver's poetry is known for its focus on the natural world, and "Wild Geese" is no exception. The poem begins with the lines:
"You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves."
These opening lines set the tone for the rest of the poem, which is one of acceptance, love, and trust. Oliver is telling us that we don't have to strive for perfection or punish ourselves for our flaws. Instead, we can simply allow ourselves to be, to love what we love, and to trust in the natural world.
The Symbolism of the Wild Geese
The wild geese of the poem's title are a symbol of freedom, migration, and the cyclical nature of life. Oliver writes:
"Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting— over and over announcing your place in the family of things."
The wild geese represent the idea that we are all part of a larger whole, connected to the natural world and to each other. They also symbolize the idea of migration, of moving from one place to another, which is a powerful metaphor for the journey of life.
The Soft Animal of the Soul
The "soft animal of the body" is a phrase that Oliver uses to describe the soul. This phrase is meant to evoke the idea of vulnerability, sensitivity, and openness. The soul is not a hard, rigid thing, but rather a soft, receptive, and gentle entity that is capable of love, compassion, and connection.
The idea of the soft animal of the soul is closely tied to the concept of mindfulness and presence. Oliver is encouraging us to be present in our bodies, to listen to our intuition, and to trust in our inner wisdom. This is a powerful message, especially in a world that often values productivity, achievement, and busyness over presence and mindfulness.
Practical Applications
So how can we apply the lessons of "Wild Geese" to our everyday lives? Here are a few practical suggestions:
- Take time to connect with nature. Go for a walk, sit in a park, or simply gaze out the window. Allow yourself to be present in the natural world.
- Practice mindfulness and presence. Take a few deep breaths, feel your feet on the ground, and listen to your inner wisdom.
- Allow yourself to be vulnerable and open. Share your feelings, thoughts, and desires with others, and be receptive to their love and support.
Conclusion
"Wild Geese" is a powerful and beautiful poem that offers us a message of hope, love, and acceptance. Mary Oliver's work is a reminder that we are all part of a larger whole, connected to the natural world and to each other. By embracing our vulnerability, practicing mindfulness and presence, and trusting in our inner wisdom, we can live more authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling lives.
What is the main theme of Mary Oliver's poem "Wild Geese"?
+The main theme of Mary Oliver's poem "Wild Geese" is the idea of embracing our true nature and trusting in the natural world.
What does the phrase "soft animal of the body" mean in the context of the poem?
+The phrase "soft animal of the body" refers to the soul, and is meant to evoke the idea of vulnerability, sensitivity, and openness.
How can we apply the lessons of "Wild Geese" to our everyday lives?
+We can apply the lessons of "Wild Geese" by taking time to connect with nature, practicing mindfulness and presence, and allowing ourselves to be vulnerable and open.