Summary
The web content discusses a review of Mary Oliver's essay collection "Upstream — Selected Essays" (2016), reflecting on nature, the influence of Emerson and Whitman, and changes in Provincetown, alongside a mention of the previous book read, "The Shape of the Ruins" (2015) by Juan Gabriel Vásquez.
Abstract
The provided text is a personal reflection on Mary Oliver's "Upstream — Selected Essays," which offers a series of contemplative essays that delve into the dual aspects of nature's beauty and its harshness. The author of the web content expresses a deep connection with Oliver's insights, particularly noting the impact of her observations on the perception of common wildlife like seagulls, turtles, and spiders. Oliver's writing is described as both delightful and insightful, with a profound influence on the reader's perspective. The review also touches on the literary influences of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Walt Whitman on Oliver's work, as well as the transformation of her hometown, Provincetown. Additionally, the text references a previous book review, "The Shape of the Ruins" by Juan Gabriel Vásquez, and mentions the author's experimentation with Medium's shortform posts to document recent reads.
Opinions
- Mary Oliver's essays are described as memorable and impactful, particularly in changing the reader's view of nature and its creatures.
- The author appreciates Oliver's ability to capture the complexities of nature, acknowledging both its beauty and its indifferent, harsh aspects.
- There is an expressed admiration for Oliver's literary influences, notably Emerson and Whitman, suggesting these figures have significantly shaped her writing.
- The changes in Provincetown, a place dear to Oliver, are noted with a sense of nostalgia and reflection on the passage of time and its effects.
- The author reveals a personal transformation, no longer viewing seagulls, turtle eggs, and spider webs in the same light after reading Oliver's essays.
- The mention of the previous book, "The Shape of the Ruins," indicates a breadth of reading and a transition from one profound literary experience to another.
- The author's use of Medium's shortform posts to document recent reads shows an engagement with new content formats and a willingness to share their literary journey in a more immediate and continuous manner.
