se, her imagery is Platonic because the beauty of nature is really a reflection of God's Ideal. In some ways, this passage foreshadows William Cullen Bryant. However, other portions of the poem bring out themes and images that have continued to interest poets throughout several hundred centuries. Attachment to "the things of this world" and detachment are examined here with a high degree of sensitivity and intelligence.
"The sweet tongued philomel," with no knowledge of time, is free from mankind's fear: "winter's never felt by that sweet airy legion." As Bradstreet observes fish leaping, two of her most outstanding lines are brought forth: "Look how the wantons frisk to taste the air,/Then to the colder bottom straight they dive."
"Contemplations" is very likely Bradstreet's finest poetic crea
...