Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

WHAT WE NEED IS HERE, by WENDELL BERRY Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"What We Need Is Here" by Wendell Berry is a reflective and grounding poem that speaks to the themes of contentment, presence, and the sufficiency of the natural world. Through the simple yet profound observation of geese flying overhead, Berry conveys a message of trust in the inherent completeness of life and the importance of recognizing the abundance that surrounds us.

The poem opens with the image of geese appearing in the sky, a symbol of the natural cycles and rhythms that govern life. The geese, guided by instinct and an ancient faith, follow their path with a sense of purpose and belonging. This image serves as a metaphor for the human journey, suggesting that, like the geese, we too are held to our way by forces greater than ourselves—whether it be love, sleep, or a deep-seated knowledge of our place in the world.

Berry's use of the word "Abandon" in relation to the geese's flight captures the essence of surrendering to the journey, of being fully immersed in the process without resistance. This notion of abandon is paralleled with the human desire to find peace and clarity of heart and eye. The poem suggests that such peace comes not from seeking beyond our current existence for something new or different, but from recognizing and appreciating what is already present.

The repeated line "what we need is here" is a powerful affirmation of the sufficiency of the present moment and the natural environment. Berry challenges the reader to shift their perspective from one of lack or desire for external salvation—whether it be a "new earth or heaven"—to one of gratitude for the abundance that already exists. This shift in perspective is framed as a form of prayer, a spiritual practice of seeking tranquility and clarity within oneself and in one's immediate surroundings.

The poem's call to be "quiet in heart, and in eye, clear" echoes the importance of mindfulness and presence. By cultivating a quiet heart and a clear vision, we can perceive the beauty, resources, and answers that are readily available in our lives and the natural world. This clarity of vision allows us to see beyond the distractions and illusions of materialism and to connect with the deeper truths and simplicities of existence.

"What We Need Is Here" is a contemplative reminder of the power of presence, the beauty of the natural world, and the inherent completeness of our lives. Wendell Berry offers a perspective that counters the relentless pursuit of more, inviting readers to find fulfillment and peace in the recognition of what is already before us. Through this poem, Berry advocates for a life grounded in appreciation, mindfulness, and an abiding faith in the sufficiency of the here and now.

POEM TEXT:

Geese appear high over us,

pass, and the sky closes. Abandon,

as in love or sleep, holds

them to their way, clear

in the ancient faith: what we need

is here. And we pray, not

for new earth or heaven, but to be

quiet in heart, and in eye,

clear. What we need is here..