'Prayer' by Henry David Thoreau

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Great God, I ask for no meaner pelf
Than that I may not disappoint myself,
That in my action I may soar as high
As I can now discern with this clear eye.
And next in value, which thy kindness lends,
That I may greatly disappoint my friends,
Howe'er they think or hope that it may be,
They may not dream how thou'st distinguished me.

That my weak hand may equal my firm faith
And my life practice what my tongue saith
That my low conduct may not show
Nor my relenting lines
That I thy purpose did not know
Or overrated thy designs.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Poetry, Prayer by Henry David Thoreau: A Masterpiece of Nature-inspired Literature

Have you ever read a poem that made you feel like you were one with nature? That made you see the beauty in the simplest things around you? If not, then you need to read Henry David Thoreau's "Poetry, Prayer."

Thoreau was a transcendentalist writer who lived in the mid-19th century. His love for nature and his belief in the divinity of the natural world are reflected in his works, including "Poetry, Prayer." In this poem, Thoreau encourages his readers to appreciate the beauty of nature and to find solace in it.

Summary of the Poem

The poem is divided into three stanzas, each with six lines. Thoreau begins by describing the beauty of nature, using imagery that appeals to the senses. He talks about the "purple finch" and the "yellow violet," and how they bring joy to those who see them.

In the second stanza, Thoreau contrasts the beauty of nature with the ugliness of human creations. He speaks of "the city's drone" and "the merchant's trade," which are in stark contrast to the "gentle breeze" and "rippling brooks" of nature.

The final stanza is a prayer to nature. Thoreau asks that the natural world continue to provide solace and inspiration to those who seek it. He speaks of the "divine breath" of nature, which can calm the troubled soul and bring peace to the weary.

Analysis of the Poem

Thoreau's "Poetry, Prayer" is a celebration of nature and a critique of human society. The poem expresses Thoreau's belief that nature is the source of true beauty and inspiration, and that human creations can never compare.

Thoreau's use of vivid imagery is one of the most striking aspects of the poem. He describes the "purple finch" and the "yellow violet" in such detail that the reader can almost see them. This imagery is not just decorative; it is a way for Thoreau to convey the beauty of nature and the joy it brings.

The contrast between nature and human society is another important theme of the poem. Thoreau sees the city and its commerce as a threat to the natural world. He sees nature as a haven from the ugliness and noise of human creations.

The final stanza of the poem is a prayer to nature. Thoreau asks for the natural world to continue to provide solace and inspiration to those who seek it. This prayer is not just a personal statement; it is a call to action for all those who love nature to protect it and preserve it for future generations.

Interpretation of the Poem

Thoreau's "Poetry, Prayer" is a powerful statement about the importance of nature in our lives. The poem is a reminder that we need to appreciate the natural world and protect it from the destructive forces of human society.

Thoreau's message is still relevant today. We live in a world where the natural world is under constant threat from pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction. Thoreau's poem is a call to action for all those who care about the environment to take steps to protect it.

The poem is also a reminder that nature can provide solace and inspiration in our lives. In a world that is often hectic and stressful, we need to take time to connect with nature and find peace in its beauty. Thoreau's poem is a reminder of the healing power of nature.

Conclusion

Thoreau's "Poetry, Prayer" is a masterpiece of nature-inspired literature. The poem is a celebration of the beauty of nature and a critique of the ugliness of human society. Thoreau's use of vivid imagery and powerful language make the poem a joy to read and a powerful statement about the importance of nature in our lives.

If you have never read "Poetry, Prayer," I urge you to do so. Thoreau's words will transport you to a world of beauty and peace, and inspire you to protect the natural world for future generations.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Poetry Prayer by Henry David Thoreau: A Masterpiece of Spiritual and Artistic Expression

Henry David Thoreau, the renowned American philosopher, poet, and naturalist, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in American literature. His works, including Walden and Civil Disobedience, have inspired generations of readers with their profound insights into nature, society, and the human condition. Among Thoreau's lesser-known works is his Poetry Prayer, a short but powerful poem that captures the essence of his spiritual and artistic vision. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of this masterpiece of poetic expression.

The Poetry Prayer, also known as the "Hymn to the Muse," was written by Thoreau in 1843, when he was only 26 years old. The poem is a prayer to the Muse, the ancient Greek goddess of inspiration, who was believed to inspire poets, musicians, and artists with divine inspiration. Thoreau's poem begins with a humble request to the Muse to "come and possess me wholly," to "breathe thy breath into my song," and to "fill me with thy grace divine." The poet acknowledges his own limitations and inadequacies, and seeks the Muse's help in transcending them:

"Teach me, that I may feel my soul Expand, and swell, and grow; Teach me, that I may upward go, Where the eternal waters roll."

Thoreau's prayer is not just a request for artistic inspiration, but a plea for spiritual enlightenment. He seeks to connect with the divine source of creativity and wisdom, and to be guided by it in his artistic and personal life. The Muse, for Thoreau, is not just a mythological figure, but a symbol of the transcendent power of the human imagination and spirit.

The second stanza of the poem is a celebration of nature, which Thoreau regarded as the ultimate source of inspiration and beauty. He invokes the "sacred groves" and "mountain heights" that have inspired poets and artists throughout history, and asks the Muse to "teach me their song." Thoreau's love of nature was not just aesthetic, but deeply spiritual. He believed that nature was a manifestation of the divine, and that by immersing oneself in its beauty and harmony, one could attain a higher level of consciousness and understanding.

The third stanza of the poem is a call to action, a challenge to the poet to use his artistic gifts to inspire and uplift humanity. Thoreau asks the Muse to "teach me to paint the glowing thought," to "write the living word," and to "sing the anthem of the free." He sees his poetry not just as a personal expression, but as a means of social and political transformation. Thoreau was a passionate advocate of social justice and individual freedom, and he believed that art could be a powerful tool for social change.

The final stanza of the poem is a reaffirmation of Thoreau's faith in the Muse and in the power of poetry. He declares that "the Muse shall be my guide," and that he will follow her wherever she leads him. He acknowledges that the path of the artist is not an easy one, but he is willing to endure the hardships and challenges that come with it. Thoreau's poem is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, and to the transformative power of art.

In conclusion, Henry David Thoreau's Poetry Prayer is a masterpiece of spiritual and artistic expression. It is a humble and heartfelt plea for inspiration and guidance, a celebration of nature and the human spirit, and a call to action for social and political change. Thoreau's poem is a testament to the enduring power of the human imagination and spirit, and to the transformative power of art. It is a timeless work of poetry that continues to inspire and uplift readers today, just as it did when it was first written over 150 years ago.

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