Mary Oliver 6: “I Go Down To The Shore”

“I Go Down To the Shore” by Mary Oliver 

    The poem's setting is the shore, a place where the land meets the sea. The shore is a classic natural setting, symbolizing a threshold or a boundary. This scene is reflective, as Mary Oliver stands in awe of the rhythmic patterns of the waves. She describes a routine of going to the shore in the morning, observing the changing tides. The flow between the lines creates a continuous rhythm, mirroring the movement of the waves. There are several themes explored in this short poem including those of gaining wisdom through nature and the insignificance of humans in the grand scheme of the environment. Mary Oliver seeks guidance from the sea, and its response, though seemingly indifferent, carries a profound message about the natural order and the persistence of life. The vastness of the sea and its statement, "Excuse me, I have work to do," suggest the triviality of individual human concerns in the face of nature's timeless existence. Oliver employs vivid imagery, allowing readers to visualize the waves rolling in and out, creating a sensory experience. The sea is personified with a "lovely voice," giving it a character and making it a participant in the speaker's introspection. The poem hints at a philosophy of acceptance and understanding one's place in the larger scheme of existence. The sea's response encourages the speaker to acknowledge the ongoing, purposeful nature of life.

    This poem spoke to me because of its imagery related to the ocean. I grew up in San Diego, CA in a beach town, so I am very familiar with the ocean. The beach, and specifically the crashing waves, has always been a happy place for me, a place I went to find peace or collect my thoughts. Therefore, I personally connect with the feelings expressed by Oliver. There is something reassuring in the thought that the waves carry away any negativity one might face, drifting it out in the vast sea. The size of the ocean also alludes to the theme that we, as humans, are just a miniscule part of the entire world, making our existence feel insignificant. In essence, "I Go Down to the Shore" is a contemplative piece that celebrates the beauty of nature while offering a gentle reminder of the enduring and cyclical nature of life. It invites readers to find solace and perspective in the simplicity of the natural world.

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