Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Small" is a poem by Theodore Roethke that explores the beauty and intricacy of the natural world, particularly the small and often overlooked creatures and objects within it. The poem is a celebration of the small, mundane details of life that often go unnoticed and unappreciated.

Roethke begins by describing a small snail moving along a blade of grass, its tiny horns and slow progress capturing his attention. He then shifts to a beetle, which he describes as "a clunker, a little dreadnaught of plated mail," emphasizing its toughness and resilience. The poem then moves to a leaf, with Roethke admiring its shape, color, and the way it trembles in the wind.

Throughout the poem, Roethke emphasizes the smallness of these objects and creatures, but also highlights their beauty and significance. He suggests that even the tiniest things have a purpose and a place in the world, and that we should take the time to appreciate them.

One notable aspect of "The Small" is the way Roethke's language and imagery brings these small creatures and objects to life. He uses vivid and sensory language, such as "horns a-lifting," "green rivets," and "tremble-feathered," to create a clear and detailed picture in the reader's mind. He also uses personification, such as describing the snail's "determinate horns" and the beetle's "plated mail," to give these small beings a sense of personality and agency.

Overall, "The Small" is a powerful reminder of the beauty and significance of the small things in life. Roethke's attention to detail and his skillful use of language make this poem a joy to read and a tribute to the often-overlooked wonders of the natural world.

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