Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Mary Oliver’s poem "The Place I Want to Get Back To" evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and a longing for a moment of profound connection with nature. Through the vivid recollection of an encounter with two deer in the pinewoods, Oliver explores themes of simplicity, serenity, and the irreplaceable value of such intimate experiences with the natural world.

The poem opens with a clear statement of yearning: "The place I want to get back to / is where / in the pinewoods / in the moments between / the darkness / and first light." This sets a tranquil and almost sacred scene, capturing the transitional time of dawn, a moment that bridges night and day. The setting in the pinewoods adds a layer of natural beauty and calmness, providing the perfect backdrop for the encounter that follows.

Oliver describes the approach of two deer: "two deer / came walking down the hill / and when they saw me / they said to each other, okay, / this one is okay." This anthropomorphism suggests a mutual recognition and acceptance between the poet and the deer, establishing a sense of trust and curiosity. The deer’s internal dialogue conveys a gentle, cautious assessment of the poet, portraying them as thoughtful beings capable of discernment.

The poet's presence is described as non-threatening and almost otherworldly: "why she is sitting / on the ground like that, / so quiet, as if / asleep, or in a dream, / but, anyway, harmless." This depiction emphasizes the stillness and peacefulness of the poet, likening her state to that of a dreamer, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. This tranquility allows the deer to approach her without fear.

Oliver continues to describe the interaction with the deer: "and so they came / on their slender legs / and gazed upon me / not unlike the way / I go out to the dunes and look / and look and look / into the faces of the flowers." This comparison highlights the poet’s deep appreciation and reverence for nature, mirroring the deer's curiosity about her. The reciprocal gazing suggests a shared moment of understanding and connection between different forms of life.

The pinnacle of this encounter is when one deer nuzzles her hand: "and then one of them leaned forward / and nuzzled my hand, and what can my life / bring to me that could exceed / that brief moment?" This act of gentle contact encapsulates the profound intimacy and trust between the poet and the deer. It is a moment of pure, unspoken communion that transcends ordinary experiences.

Reflecting on this moment, Oliver reveals her dedication to revisiting the same woods: "For twenty years / I have gone every day to the same woods, / not waiting, exactly, just lingering." This habitual return to the woods signifies a deep, ongoing relationship with the place, a search for moments of connection and meaning. The woods represent a constant source of solace and reflection, even if such extraordinary encounters cannot be repeated.

The poem concludes with an invitation and an expression of gratitude: "If you want to talk about this / come to visit. I live in the house / near the corner, which I have named / Gratitude." This closing offers a glimpse into the poet's life philosophy, emphasizing the importance of appreciation and mindfulness. Naming her home "Gratitude" signifies a profound acknowledgment of the gifts that life and nature bestow, encapsulating the essence of the poem’s message.

Structurally, the poem’s free verse and conversational tone create an intimate and reflective atmosphere, allowing the reader to feel the immediacy and sincerity of Oliver’s words. The simplicity and clarity of the language mirror the simplicity and purity of the encounter described.

In conclusion, "The Place I Want to Get Back To" by Mary Oliver is a deeply moving meditation on the beauty and significance of moments of connection with nature. Through the tender recounting of her encounter with two deer, Oliver explores themes of peace, understanding, and the enduring value of such experiences. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own relationships with the natural world and to cultivate a sense of gratitude for the moments of wonder and connection that life offers. Oliver’s ability to capture profound truths in simple, elegant language makes this poem a poignant and timeless reflection on the importance of nature in our lives.

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