Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Mary Oliver's poem "Lines Written in the Days of Growing Darkness" is a meditation on the cyclical nature of life and the inevitable transitions that characterize the natural world. Through her observations of the changing seasons, Oliver contemplates the acceptance of decay and renewal, urging a cheerful persistence despite the encroaching darkness of winter.

The poem opens with a recognition of an annual event: "Every year we have been / witness to it: how the / world descends / into a rich mash, in order that / it may resume." Here, Oliver captures the natural process of decay that leads to renewal. The "rich mash" evokes the image of fallen leaves and organic matter decomposing, enriching the soil for future growth. This cycle is fundamental to the continuity of life, suggesting that decline is a necessary precursor to regeneration.

Oliver then poses a rhetorical question, "who would cry out / to the petals on the ground / to stay," recognizing the futility of resisting this natural process. She acknowledges the intrinsic connection between the past and the future, how "the vivacity of what was is married / to the vitality of what will be." This metaphorical marriage implies that the energy and life force of previous seasons contribute to the vitality of the seasons to come. It is a reminder of the interconnectedness of all stages of life and the importance of embracing change.

The poet admits the difficulty of accepting this reality: "I don't say / it's easy, but / what else will do / if the love one claims to have for the world / be true?" Here, Oliver confronts the challenge of maintaining a true and unconditional love for the world, even as it undergoes cycles of death and rebirth. True love for the world involves accepting its processes and changes, recognizing that they are essential to its beauty and vitality.

Oliver's response to this acceptance is a call to perseverance and cheerfulness: "So let us go on, cheerfully enough, / this and every crisping day." Despite the shortening days and the cold, darkening landscape, she encourages a positive and resilient attitude. The use of "crisping day" evokes the brisk, invigorating quality of autumn and early winter days, suggesting a sense of freshness and clarity.

The final lines of the poem reflect the reality of the changing season: "though the sun be swinging east, / and the ponds be cold and black, / and the sweets of the year be doomed." The eastward swinging sun indicates the approach of winter, as the days grow shorter and the sun rises and sets in different parts of the sky. The cold, black ponds symbolize the stillness and dormancy of winter, while the "sweets of the year" being doomed acknowledges the end of the harvest and the pleasures of the warm months. Yet, despite this, Oliver's tone remains one of acceptance and resolve.

Structurally, the poem is composed of short, enjambed lines that create a flowing, contemplative rhythm. This form mirrors the natural cycles Oliver describes, emphasizing continuity and the seamless transition from one season to the next. The simplicity and clarity of her language enhance the poem's reflective tone, allowing the reader to focus on the profound insights being shared.

Oliver's style in "Lines Written in the Days of Growing Darkness" is characterized by her deep reverence for nature and her ability to find meaning in its cycles. Her observations are both precise and philosophical, encouraging readers to appreciate the beauty and necessity of change. The poem is a testament to her skill in capturing the essence of the natural world and its lessons for human life.

In conclusion, "Lines Written in the Days of Growing Darkness" by Mary Oliver is a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of life and the importance of accepting change. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful contemplation, Oliver explores the interplay between decay and renewal, urging a cheerful perseverance in the face of inevitable transitions. The poem highlights the interconnectedness of all stages of life and the necessity of embracing the natural processes that sustain the world.

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