What are qualities of the season autumn found in the poem “To Autumn”?
John Keats (1995-1821) beautifully describes the season of autumn in his poem “To Autumn” (1820). He shows it as a time of peace, abundance, and change. The poem uses rich images and feelings to show how autumn is special. Below are qualities of autumn found in the poem:
Autumn is full of abundance: Keats shows autumn as a time of plenty. The season is filled with ripened fruits and harvests. Phrases like “mellow fruitfulness” and “load and bless” describe nature as rich and generous. The vines are heavy with fruits, apples bend the branches, and nuts are filled with sweet kernels. It is a season of fullness and maturity.
Autumn is calm and beautiful: The poet talks about “mists” and “mellow fruitfulness,” which create a peaceful picture. Autumn is gentle and calm, not as hot as summer or as cold as winter. The sunlight is soft, and the days are warm. Bees enjoy this season, thinking that warm days will never end.
Autumn prepares for change: Keats also shows how autumn marks the end of summer and the start of winter. The season sets flowers for the bees and ripens fruits to their core. It is a time of transition. Nature works to store its energy for the coming cold months.
In the poem, Keats presents autumn as a rich, peaceful, and changing season. His words make us feel its beauty and importance.