You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves

You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves

Mary Oliver, the beloved poet known for her profound connection to nature and the human experience, often wrote about the importance of embracing the natural world and our own inner selves. One of her most famous lines, "You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves," encapsulates this sentiment perfectly.

In this line, Oliver is urging us to listen to our bodies and follow our instincts and desires. She is reminding us that we are not separate from the natural world, but rather a part of it, and that by allowing ourselves to love what we love, we can tap into a deeper sense of connection and fulfillment.

For Oliver, the "soft animal of your body" represents our physical selves, our instincts, and our emotions. It is the part of us that is raw and unfiltered, the part that knows what it wants and needs without the interference of societal expectations or self-doubt. By listening to this inner voice and allowing ourselves to love what we love, we can find true happiness and authenticity.

This idea is central to Oliver's work, as she often explored themes of self-discovery, mindfulness, and the beauty of the natural world. Through her poetry, she encouraged readers to slow down, pay attention to the world around them, and connect with their own inner truths.