Essay Questions

What is Cowper’s relationship with nature and the natural world?

Cowper views the natural world as the ultimate source of peace and solace. He delights in the idea of an isolated cabin in the woods, completely departed from the whole of humanity. Cowper believes that nature is one of God’s most complex and valuable creations and that—to be truly appreciated—it must be viewed in absolute isolation and solace. He feels deeply connected to the natural world and wants to help others—his readers—experience a similarly profound connection. In this way, it is clear that Cowper is at one with nature. He feels spiritually connected to the outside world and is most comfortable when he is immersed in nature.

What does the narrator mean when, in “Book I,” he says that a desultory man can be indulged by nature?

Cowper firmly believes that God created Earth’s vastness for the purposeful enjoyment of humans. He suggests that Earth is so vast and so mighty that mankind cannot ever possibly hope to explore it all. The plants, animals, landscapes, ecosystems, and habitats are so vast and diverse that we can endeavor to study it all but will never truly be able to do so. In other words, the world is a boundless treasure trove of explorations. This is why Cowper says that a desultory man can be indulged by nature. Even the most disinterested, boring, and disengaged human can find something in the natural world to distract/interest him or her. This quotation suggests that our planet holds so many diverse and unexplored mysteries that anyone can be led to find some sense of stimulation and engagement with it.

Explain the title of Cowper’s poem—why he has chosen to title these words “The Task”?

This poem traverses a vast range of topics, including faith, nature, reflection, and humanity as a whole. His writings can be interpreted as musings; he expresses his thoughts through this poetry and, in doing so, attempts to share some of his wisdom with his readers. His poems are unusually conversational and authentic in nature; they are merely records and extensions of his thoughts and opinions. In this way, it can be determined that the titular Task to which Cowper refers is the task and duty of each human to live life to the fullest. Cowper records his musings here as a way to document his life, experiences, and reflections. We are all tasked with the burden and responsibility of making something of our life and finding meaning in it. For Cowper, this meaning comes from his musings, his poetry, and his deep connection to nature. He tasks each of his readers with this same duty and implores them to isolate their purpose in life and take genuine pleasure in their own existence.