Each body is a lion of courage, something precious of the earth

Each body is a lion of courage, something precious of the earth

Mary Oliver, the beloved poet and Pulitzer Prize winner, has a way of capturing the beauty and resilience of the natural world in her work. In her poem "The Journey," she writes, "Each body is a lion of courage, something precious of the earth." This line speaks to the idea that every living being possesses a strength and vitality that is both unique and essential to the world around them.

Oliver often draws inspiration from the natural world, using imagery of animals and landscapes to explore themes of survival, transformation, and the interconnectedness of all living things. In this particular line, she likens the human body to a lion, a symbol of strength, courage, and power. By describing each body as a lion of courage, Oliver suggests that we all have the capacity to face challenges head-on, to overcome obstacles, and to thrive in the face of adversity.

But Oliver goes a step further by describing each body as "something precious of the earth." This phrase highlights the idea that our bodies are not only vessels of strength and courage, but also gifts from the natural world. Our bodies are made of the same elements as the earth itself, and are therefore inherently connected to the larger ecosystem of which we are a part. By recognizing the preciousness of our bodies, Oliver encourages us to treat ourselves with care and respect, and to honor the interconnectedness of all living things.