Turtle Island


Gary Snyder’s Turtle Island is an eloquent collection of poems and passages that convey the dynamic between the natural world and the rapidly changing world of human civilization. It delves deeply into the history of the distant friendship (one might even say kinship) that Native Americans enjoyed with their natural environment. It delves into myths of creation and religion to outline the origin and explain the disconnect between man and our home.

The overarching message that is being conveyed in Snyder’s Turtle Island is the need for respect. We as humans must first be made aware of the lack of regard for nature before becoming motivated to correct our actions. The gross disrespect that we have showed towards our home is outrageous, as is brought to light when one considers the traditions of those who had true friendship with the land, and shared in a truly mutualistic relationship with the ecosystem. The respect that must be given to the natural world is neither slight nor frivolous. It is widespread and must be given vehemently to all the facets of nature that we have exploited. This is respect for ourselves (our own nature, conscience, and self-reliance), for the traditions of the natives of our land, for each other (that is, generationally; leaving something for our children while not taking from our parents), for the land on which we live, for the flora that covers it, for the other creatures that we share it with. Overall, this means respect for Mother Earth herself, along with all her constituents.  

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