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Comparing The Lonely Land And The Pleasant Life In Newfoundland

737 Words3 Pages

The poems "The Lonely Land" by A.J.M. Smith and "The Pleasant Life in
Newfoundland" by Robert Hayman present contrasting perspectives on the natural beauty and solitude found in different landscapes. Hayman’s poem describes the beauty of the Canadian east coast as warm and inviting. Smith describes a cold and harsh landscape, unphased by the influence of humans, emphasizing beauty shown by the strength within. Although both "The Lonely Land" and "The Pleasant Life in
Newfoundland" focus on nature, they also use different tones and employ different techniques to express their emotions.

In "The Lonely Land," Smith describes a frigid and rugged Canadian landscape, focusing on the isolation and loneliness of the surroundings. In the first stanza, …show more content…

Newfoundland winters are said to be short, wholesome, constant and clear. The focus Of “The Pleasant Life in Newfoundland” is drawn to the vitality and abundance of the region.
Although the setting is similar, both poems explore different themes related to nature. Smith commonly refers back to the power and strength of nature. He talks about

“the beauty of dissonance”, which is the unwavering beauty found in unsuitable clashes or a lack of harmony. This leaves the reader with an overwhelming sense that they are
Isolated, out of place, and unwelcome. “The Pleasant Life in Newfoundland” shares a contrasting perspective centred around prosperity and vitality, where nature coexists with the inhabitants. In a symbiosis of sorts, humans take what nature has to offer, in return they treat the surrounding environment with respect. He talks about embracing
“Fire, Water, Earth, and Aire ”, stating these as distinct reasons for foreigners to experience the culture. Hayman allows the relationship between humans and nature to ebb and flow like the seasons, giving and taking from both sides.

Both "The Lonely Land" and "The Pleasant Life in Newfoundland" leave room for interpretation of underlying meanings. Smith’s work Indirectly references a sense

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