Unstoppable Force of Nature
In “Book I,” Cowper speaks to the incredible power of the natural world. He constantly reminds his readers that the earth is ever-changing and ever-revolving. Regardless of our efforts to destroy the planet and resources we have been provided, the earth will continue to spin; the plants will continue to grow; and the animals will continue to thrive. Cowper focuses on the ever-revolving nature of the planet to remind his readers that we, as humans, are truly insignificant in the grand scheme of existence. Planet Earth is far more powerful than we and, as such, will continue to spin and exist long after we have been driven to extinction.
Humanity as a Destructive Force
Cowper feels quite strongly that humanity has become a plague upon itself and upon the natural world. In “Book I” and “Book II,” Cowper suggests that humans do not properly value and revere the earth that we call home. Instead, we consume its resources without any recompense. As such, Cowper concludes that humanity is a destructive and ungrateful species, one that will ultimately destroy the planet we have been gifted and—in doing so—ourselves. Despite Cowper’s frustration with humanity’s disregard for the natural wonders of the earth, he does believe that humans can—with some help and re-focusing—be taught to value the earth and treat it with respect.
One with Nature
In “Book II,” the narrator shares his wish to live alone in a cabin in the woods, where he can be separated from the degradation of society and humanity. The narrator explains that he feels absolute isolation is the only true way to become one with nature and to immerse oneself in the natural world. When one separates oneself from the war and deceit of humanity, they are able to connect with the natural world around them. To achieve such a connected state is, for the narrator, the ultimate peak of humanity. The quintessential human existence, therefore, would—rather ironically—include a complete and total departure from humanity.
