Interdependence of Literature and Environment: An Analysis of What I Learned from the Trees by L. E. Bowman

Abstract

Literature and the environment are interconnected. Literature has always depicted Mother Nature. Since the beginning of literature, the study and analysis of nature have always been a prominent part of it. Since the dawn of civilization literature has always been an active medium for depicting the harsh realities of society and environment. From ancient to modern times literature and nature has been hand in hand. We always call nature as Mother Nature. This nature is connected with the activities of humans. The issues of climate change and various feminist movements have drawn parallels between nature and women. Both are an integral part of human civilization. All humans must make a balance between human activities and nature. The paper draws parallels between literature and nature in light of the poetry collection What I Learned from the Trees by L. E. Bowman published in 2021, which delves into the intricate relationship between humans and nature and how these often overlooked, everyday interactions affect us as individuals, families, and communities. These linkages include our language and literature, mythology, and ancient faiths. There are instances where women and nature are comparable, particularly when it comes to their roles as producers and maintainers of life as well as their interpersonal relationships. This paper is an attempt to review the relationship between literature and nature to bring a positive change in the world.