Gemstones are precious objects and by linking them to nature the poets are creating an image of richness and adornment. For instance, Lampman describes the morning as being "Capped with gold and amethyst" (3). One can easily picture the beautiful blue sky being covered by the sunrise resulting in purple and golden hues to appear. Amethyst is a common stone that is still cherished but gold is one of the most desired metals, possessing gold increases the worth of anything. Therefore, the land is rich since it’s drenched with this yellow colour. Similarly, Pickthall writes “The sunlight falls in amber bars” (10). Once again, amber has a golden undertone which adds on to its lusciousness. Furthermore, when describing the streams or pools of water in the outdoors the poets continue to use metals and gems. For example, Lampman writes “With the little silvery drip” (14) to show the lightness and clarity of water. However, Pickthall goes for a slightly different description, “And every pool a sapphire is” (5). Pickthall’s description of water is a deep sapphire blue, it is darker and has more of a punch in comparison to Lampman’s light silvery water. Yet, both poets are once again using gems and metals to describe pieces of nature; therefore, they are pointing out nature’s importance. In addition, it is interesting that both poets seem to pick up on and appreciate even the littlest of …show more content…
For example, Lampman writes “Far above us where a jay / Screams his matins to the day” (1-2), as explained in the footnotes matins are known as religious prayers; therefore, by using a jay in relation to the action of praying Lampman is implying there is a spiritual/religious aspect found in nature. Furthermore, Lampman references Judaic belief when he writes “Where the lazy river sucks / All the water as it bleeds” (27-28), by describing the water as bleeding the poet could be referencing the instance where Moses turned the Egyptian waters into blood.Pickthall seems to address the spirituality in nature as well, she states “A silver shell and a shaken star” (11). It is known that falling stars represent a form of communication between the divine and humankind. Therefore, the shaken star is alluding to falling stars since the star itself is in an unstable state, thus Pickthall addresses this connection. Furthermore, this line has an alternate meaning that refers to the birth of Christ. The three wise men followed the star of Bethlehem to bring Earth’s saviour his presents and to acknowledge his new presence in the world. Therefore, it is evident that both poets link spiritual practices and/or beliefs to