Question

What do the last two lines of "The Rhodora" and "To a Waterfowl" have in common?

Answer 1

The last two lines of both “The Rhodora” and “To a Waterfowl” convey a deep appreciation for nature's wisdom and its inherent beauty. They share traditional rhyme patterns and philosophical themes about life and existence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The last two lines of “The Rhodora” by Ralph Waldo Emerson and “To a Waterfowl” by William Cullen Bryant share a common theme of nature's wisdom and a reverence for natural beauty. In “The Rhodora”, the final lines reflect on the eponymous flower's purpose, suggesting that its beauty is sufficient reason for its existence, imparting a contemplative message about the intrinsic value of nature. Similarly, the concluding lines of “To a Waterfowl” present a spiritual epiphany, as the poet realizes that the waterfowl's solitary flight is guided by a divine power, offering comfort that there is guidance in life's journey. Both poems employ traditional rhyme patterns, with “The Rhodora” using an AABB scheme, and “To a Waterfowl” utilizing an ABAB pattern. Additionally, they convey deep philosophical insights, with the former speaking to the interconnection between all living things and the latter to the guidance and purpose behind life's seemingly meandering paths.

Answer 2

The last two lines of "The Rhodora" and "To a Waterfowl" both express a sense of unity and connection with nature, emphasizing the beauty and purpose found in the natural world.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the concluding lines of "The Rhodora," Ralph Waldo Emerson reflects on the interconnectedness of all elements in nature, highlighting the beauty of the rhodora flower as part of the grand tapestry of creation. Similarly, in William Cullen Bryant's "To a Waterfowl," the final lines convey a profound connection between the speaker's journey and the bird's flight, suggesting a purposeful design in the natural order. Both poets use their concluding verses to convey a sense of harmony and purpose within the larger scope of the natural world.

Examining the common themes in the concluding lines of these poems underscores the transcendentalist perspective prevalent in American literature during the 19th century. The poets celebrate the beauty of nature and emphasize the spiritual connection between humans and the natural world, reflecting a philosophical movement that sought to explore the divine in the ordinary aspects of life.