Question

250 word. Contrast Essay - Setting

PREPARATION:
Poetry frequently relies on creating an image in the reader's mind that is connected to the experience of the poem. This is often done in the setting of the poem. By creating a snapshot of a specific setting, the poem immediately has a greater impact because the reader can better relate to what is happening as the poem unfolds.
A renowned poet who relies heavily on setting is Robert Frost. Many of his poems are intended to draw readers into a natural setting, a quiet space where they can visualize and feel what is happening to the narrator. One such poem is "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Another poem that draws readers into its natural setting is "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" by William Wordsworth.
The two poems use setting to develop a theme surrounding the reflection of humanity in nature. However, while Frost's poem views the natural world as distinctly separate from humanity. Wordsworth's poem views humanity and nature as one and the same.
ASSIGNMENT:
Write an essay in which you contrast the way two poets use setting to develop a theme surrounding the reflection of humanity in nature. Poems: - "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" by Robert Frost - "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" by William Wordsworth
Questions to Consider:
-How does the time-of-day contrast in each poem?
-How does the season of the year contrast in each poem? -How does the speaker react to nature in each poem?
-How is nature described in each poem?
Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost
Whose woods these are I think I know. His house is in the village, though; He will not see me stopping here To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it's queer To stop without a farmhouse near Between the woods and frozen lake The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there's some mistake. The only other sound's the sweep Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark, and deep, But I have promises to keep. And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.

Answer 1

In the poems "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" by Robert Frost and "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" by William Wordsworth, the poets employ setting to develop a theme surrounding the reflection of humanity in nature. However, they approach this theme in contrasting ways.

In "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," Frost uses the setting of a quiet, wintry landscape to evoke a sense of solitude and contemplation. The time-of-day contrast is evident as the speaker stops in the woods during the darkest evening of the year. The season of winter further enhances the feeling of isolation and introspection. The speaker's reaction to nature is one of admiration, as he describes the woods as "lovely, dark, and deep." However, the speaker is compelled to move on due to the responsibilities and promises that await him. Frost portrays nature as a separate entity from humanity, emphasizing the divide between the two.

On the other hand, in "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud," Wordsworth presents a setting that is filled with vibrant and picturesque natural imagery. The time-of-day contrast is not explicitly mentioned, but the poem describes a field of daffodils "fluttering and dancing in the breeze" and a "host of golden daffodils." The season is implied to be spring, as daffodils are typically associated with this time of year. The speaker's reaction to nature is one of awe and transcendence. He feels a deep connection with the daffodils, as they bring him joy and solace. Wordsworth portrays nature and humanity as intertwined, suggesting that moments of natural beauty can uplift the human spirit and bring about a sense of unity.

In conclusion, Frost and Wordsworth employ setting to develop contrasting themes surrounding the reflection of humanity in nature. Frost's poem emphasizes the separation between nature and humanity, portraying nature as a source of contemplation and solitude. In contrast, Wordsworth's poem highlights the interconnectedness of nature and humanity, showcasing the transformative power of natural beauty on the human spirit. Both poems demonstrate the profound impact that setting can have on the interpretation and meaning of a poem, drawing readers into the world of the poem and inviting them to reflect on their own relationship with nature.