Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Nest Eggs" is a charming poem by Robert Louis Stevenson that portrays the wonder and anticipation of witnessing birds nesting and hatching their eggs. The poem captures the contrast between the fragility and vulnerability of the birds' eggs and the strength and maturity of human observers.

The poem begins by describing the bustling activity of birds throughout the summer day. They flutter and quarrel in the arbor-like tent created by the laurel branches. In the fork of the branches, a brown nest is nestled, where the mother bird diligently keeps her little blue eggs warm.

As the observers stand and watch, they are filled with curiosity and amazement, staring like "gabies" (foolish or simple-minded people). The poem highlights the safety and security that the eggs provide for the bird's little babies, hidden within their fragile shells.

The anticipation builds as the poem suggests that soon the delicate eggs will start to crack and the young birds will emerge, filling the April woods with their cheerful songs. The contrast is made between the young birds, so much younger and frailer than the human observers, and yet capable of taking flight and exploring the vast blue sky.

The poem acknowledges the passage of time and the natural progression of life. While the human observers may be older, taller, and stronger, they will eventually look down on the birds as they take flight and soar high above in the treetops. Despite the wisdom and sensible talking of the human observers, they are reminded that they must continue with their own journey, plodding and walking on their feet.

"Nest Eggs" beautifully captures the marvel of nature, the delicate cycle of life, and the reminder of our place in the world. It invites us to appreciate the fleeting moments of wonder and to embrace the natural rhythms that surround us.

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