Poetry · Chapter
Tall Nettles explained
The speaker reflects on a corner of the farmyard where tall nettles have overtaken old, rusted farming tools.
What happens
The speaker reflects on a corner of the farmyard where tall nettles have overtaken old, rusted farming tools. He expresses a deep appreciation for the nettles and the dust upon them, which only a shower can wash away, revealing a simple, enduring beauty.
Themes in this chapter
Nature and the Seasons
The nettles reclaiming the farmyard over many springs highlight nature's persistent growth and seasonal renewal.
Place and Belonging
The speaker's fondness for this specific corner of the farmyard underscores a deep sense of attachment to a particular place.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The speaker who observes and appreciates the nettles and the farmyard corner.
Key passages
“Tall nettles cover up, as they have done These many springs, the rusty harrow, the plough Long worn out, and the roller made of stone”
For many springs, tall nettles have hidden the rusty harrow, the worn-out plough, and the stone roller.
Describes the nettles overtaking abandoned farm tools.
“As well as any bloom upon a flower I like the dust on the nettles, never lost Except to prove the sweetness of a shower.”
I love the dust on the nettles as much as any flower blossom, and it only disappears to show how sweet a rain shower is.
Expresses the speaker's unique appreciation for the dusty nettles and the cleansing rain.