Comfort Marine Bruno College

Technology and other aspects of daily life are constantly being improved, not only to better our knowledge and power but to enhance the quality of life of many, which lowers the level of discomfort that most encounter. In today’s society, most people are used to comfort and to staying inside of a “comfort zone,” therefore often never experiencing hardship or discomfort, unless required to do so. Through the use of imagery, whether brief or descriptive, Mary Oliver touches upon the subject of discomfort, its positives, and its necessity in “Starfish” and “Farm Country.” “Starfish” uses deep imagery to convey the message that we must face our fears and step out of that comfort zone in order to love and appreciate all of our world and to become less afraid; meanwhile, “Farm Country” uses brief, unpleasant imagery to show that life is not as pleasant as it seems because someone must do the uncomfortable, unpleasant work to allow him or herself, and others, to reach that final, comfortable moment or position in life.

By showing a fear of starfishes being conquered, Mary Oliver allows for the reader to see that stepping out of one’s comfort zone can lead to positive results. This conquering of a fear is shown through her imagery and...