Hopkins’ Appreciation of Nature.
Pied Beauty is a notable literary work by Gerard Manley Hopkins. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Pied Beauty.
Answer
Discuss Hopkins’ appreciation of nature.
Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844-1889), a renowned English poet of the Victorian era (1832-1901), expressed a deep reverence for nature through his poetry. His profound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world is evident in poems such as “Pied Beauty,” “The Windhover,” “Spring and Fall,” and “Felix Randal.” Through rich imagery and language, Hopkins explores the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural environment, highlighting the spiritual significance of nature.
Celebrating Nature’s Diversity: In “Pied Beauty,” Hopkins acknowledges nature’s varied and contrasting elements. He states,
“Glory be to God for dappled things”
and
“All things counter, original, spare, strange.”
These lines highlight his appreciation for the irregularities and complexities found in nature, emphasising the beauty in its diversity. Moreover, Hopkins recognises the intricate patterns and designs within nature. He mentions many things, like the following line.
For rose-moles all in stipple upon trout that swim.
This attention to detail showcases his keen observation and admiration for the intricacies of the natural world. Hopkins also demonstrates a deep spiritual connection with nature, suggesting its beauty reflects the divine. He exclaims,
He fathers-forth whose beauty is past change,
It emphasises the supernatural qualities of nature and its ability to inspire awe and reverence.
Finding God in Nature: “The Windhover” is a deeply spiritual poem that showcases Hopkins’ profound connection with nature and his belief in the divine presence within it. The poem describes the grace and majesty of a kestrel in flight, with Hopkins using vivid imagery to portray the bird’s movements. He states,
…my heart in hiding
Stirred for a bird,…
He expresses his awe and admiration for the bird’s elegance. Hopkins sees the kestrel as a symbol of divine beauty and grace, acknowledging God’s presence in nature.
Nature as a Mirror of Human Emotions: In “Spring and Fall,” Hopkins reflects on the innocentUnlock this study guide now