I found the poem Some Questions You Might Ask astonishing because Oliver's questions are thought-provoking and sentimental towards all life. The poem starts with the main topic of understanding the soul. Then, the piece delves into more meaningful and reflective questions that challenge our place as humans on Earth. Her questions are based upon deciphering what beings have the capacity of a soul compared to others. Intuitively, she digs further into what a soul looks, feels, and sounds like. For example, I connected with one specific: "Who has it? Who doesn't?". I often think about this question because humans seem to be the only species with souls. After all, our dominance over the world and our various personalities show that we have souls. However, I think about other animals, like my dog Cede. She is a Labradoodle who is shy but loves to play. She's extremely loving. I compare her to other dogs, which makes me question whether dogs have souls like humans? I enjoy that Oliver's writing comments on the beauty of nature and our natural understanding of Earth as humans. Her questions challenged me to ponder her ideas about what a soul is and possessing one.
Another aspect I appreciated from this poem was her tone towards all life beyond human lives. She reminded me of the Standing Bear reading and how Native American culture views all animals, including plants, with equality in nature. Equality and soul possession within all species of life symbolize nature because we are all connected, and each serves a significant role in maintaining life for everyone. All aspects of life impact the world in which we live, as all life depends on each other.
After reading Mary Oliver's poem, I was delighted to have delved deeper into nature literature. My perspective has broadened since Treks & Text began. I am grateful to experience and understand life through a new and improved lens.
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