Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Best Reward" by Wendell Berry is a contemplative poem that explores themes of solitude, independence, and the intrinsic value of nature. Through his reflections on going into the woods, Berry articulates a profound appreciation for the freedom and self-discovery that can be found in moments of solitude away from the demands and expectations of society.

Berry opens the poem by stating that the greatest benefit of retreating into the woods is the opportunity to become lost to others and, at times, to oneself. This notion of being "lost" is not presented as a negative experience but as a liberating escape from the constraints of social interaction and connectivity. The absence of "bespeaking wire" symbolizes a break from modern communication technologies that often tether individuals to societal expectations and obligations, allowing for a return to a more authentic and unmediated experience of the self and the natural world.

The poem emphasizes the value of being unreachable, comparing the speaker's desire for solitude to the elusiveness of something wild. Berry's use of the word "wild" conveys a sense of freedom and self-determination, characteristics that are often suppressed in structured social settings. By defining "wild" as anything that exists beyond the reach of external purpose and that is not confined by the expectations of others, Berry champions the idea of living according to one's own intrinsic motivations and desires.

The reference to the white oak tree serves as a powerful symbol of independence and belonging. Unlike an orchard tree, which is cultivated for a specific purpose, the white oak stands alone in its natural environment, thriving by its own will. This image reflects Berry's admiration for beings and things that exist in harmony with their surroundings, not because they have been placed or maintained there by human hands, but because they belong to the land by their very nature.

The closing lines of the poem beautifully encapsulate the paradox of being found by losing oneself. In seeking solitude and embracing the wildness of nature, the speaker becomes lost to the wider world and its claims. Yet, it is in this state of being "lost" that the speaker feels most authentically connected to the essence of life, accessible only to those who share a deep understanding and appreciation for the natural world.

"The Best Reward" is a testament to Wendell Berry's deep reverence for nature and his belief in the importance of solitude for personal growth and spiritual renewal. Through his poetic exploration of the woods as a place of refuge and self-discovery, Berry invites readers to consider the transformative power of stepping away from societal expectations and reconnecting with the natural world.

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