The Wild and Precious Life in Mary Oliver Poems

Exploring the Beauty of Life

Mary Oliver, an American poet known for her profound connection to nature and the human experience, often reflects on the idea of "wild and precious life" in her poems. Her works delve into the beauty of existence, urging readers to appreciate the fleeting moments and embrace the wonder of the world around them.

In one of her most famous poems, "The Summer Day," Oliver contemplates the significance of life while observing a grasshopper in the sunlight. She asks, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" This question serves as a reminder to seize the day and make the most of our time on earth.

Nature as a Source of Inspiration

Oliver's deep connection to nature is evident in many of her poems, where she finds solace and wisdom in the natural world. In "When Death Comes," she writes, "When it's over, I want to say all my life I was a bride married to amazement." This sentiment emphasizes the awe-inspiring beauty of life and the necessity of embracing every moment.

Another poem, "Wild Geese," encourages readers to let go of their burdens and find solace in nature. Oliver writes, "You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting." This piece serves as a reminder to find peace and acceptance in the simplicity of the natural world.

The Transience of Life

Despite the beauty of life that Oliver celebrates in her poems, she also acknowledges its transience. In "In Blackwater Woods," she reflects on the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of existence. She writes, "To live in this world you must be able to do three things: to love what is mortal; to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it; and, when the time comes to let it go, to let it go." This piece highlights the importance of cherishing every moment while recognizing the impermanence of life.

Oliver's poetry serves as a powerful reminder to savor the "wild and precious" moments of life, to find beauty in the natural world, and to embrace the inevitable changes that come with existence. Her words inspire readers to live fully, love deeply, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.