The Splendors of Mother Nature Imagine that on a cold, September day, one is putting strenuous effort to trudge up towards

the summit of the Rocky Mountains. On the other hand, envisage someone experiencing true paradise on the surface of Turtle Island. Gary Snyder, an American poet, believes that there is no better in Mother Nature because of the incredible harmony that it is composed of. Powerful word choice and vivid imagery used by Snyder in the poem, For All compel individuals to perceive the magnificence of the environment. Snyders distinct word choice gives the readers a clear sense of how he describes nature. For instance, he engages the readers by stating: Ah to be alive / on a mid-September morn (1-2). These two lines introduce an ideal day full of blissfulness and satisfaction, making the readers wonder why. Later, in the third stanza, he only uses one line: I pledge allegiance (14). This is absolutely enthralling, as all the other stanzas are made of six or more lines. It is stunning that Snyder can convey his point concisely in one line. By utilizing the characteristics of a free verse poem, readers become more engaged, and simultaneously appreciate the sincere gratitude he wishes to express for Mother Nature. Then, he sums up his poem with an inspiring message, in the last stanza: I pledge allegiance to the soil of Turtle Island, and to the beings who thereon dwell one ecosystem in diversity under the sun With joyful interpenetration for all. (15-21) Snyder confesses his love for the planet and the diversity it offers, to the Earths citizens and posterity. It is astounding that he uses words like interpenetration to show that the polychromatic aspects of nature contribute to its beauty as a whole. It is doubtless that his selection of words evince the profound intentions he has in writing this poem. Furthermore, Snyder uses vivid imagery to disclose the significance of nature. He uses fascinating details such as Rustle and shimmer of icy creek waters / stones turn underfoot, small and hard as toes (8-9). These lines create a realistic scene of ones body

shivering as their toes turn stiff. Also, he uses imagery of both sight and sound, especially in line 8, where he portrays the vibrancy of water, shining in light making soft, muffling noises. Another outstanding example is smell of sun on gravel (13). Even though sun and gravel are two totally contrasting terms, the main idea Snyder wants to point out is that all nature is interconnected with each other, regardless of color or features. In this line he uses another form of imagery, smell, to represent gravel in an ironic, yet remarkable way. The way Snyder constantly relates to the five senses enhance the way individuals can view the environment. It is evident Gary Snyders passion for nature helps emphasize the importance and beauty of the planet humans live on. His eloquent word choice and communication through vivid imagery certainly highlights the splendors of Mother Earth. Therefore, it is essential that the poem For All is read slowly and with careful thought, as it will bring alive Snyders true message.