Death of a Naturalist: Themes & Linking Poems

Death of a Naturalist: Themes & Linking Poems

“Death of a Naturalist: Themes”

Theme: Childhood and Loss of Innocence

  • “Death of a Naturalist” brings forth the theme of childhood and presents a vivid portrayal of a child’s fascination towards nature.

  • This childhood fascination takes a dramatic turn in the second stanza with the child’s fear and revulsion towards the same creatures he was admiring. This shift in reaction embodies the loss of innocence.

Theme: Nature and Rural Life

  • The theme of nature is prominent in Heaney’s poems and “Death of a Naturalist” navigates through the unpredictable and uncomfortable aspects of nature.

  • Descriptions revolving around the flax-dam and the childhood fascination with frogspawn shed light on Heaney’s close association with rural life.

Theme: Transformation and Disillusionment

  • The poem narrates the transition of a child’s innocence to a more aware and experienced young adult. The shift in focus from fascination and adulation to fear and revulsion can be seen as the theme of transformation.

  • The detailed descriptions in the second stanza convey disappointment and disillusionment, the stark opposites of childhood charms and curiosity.

“Death of a Naturalist: Linking Poems”

“Blackberry-Picking”

  • Just like “Death of a Naturalist”, “Blackberry-Picking” showcases Heaney’s gradual transition from young innocence to the realization and acceptance of the harsh realities of life.

  • Both poems echo the melancholy attached to growing up and losing touch with the innocence and beauty of childhood.

“Digging”

  • “Digging” can be linked with “Death of a Naturalist” on the basis of the shared theme of rural life and respect towards traditional vocations.

  • Both poems showcase the beautiful complexities of nature and life in rural Ireland with Heaney’s distinctive appreciation and understanding.

“The Early Purges”

  • Heaney’s “The Early Purges” deals with similar subject matter — the stark realities of rural life, the loss of innocence, and the disturbing aspects of nature.

  • It serves as a fitting companion to “Death of a Naturalist,” elaborating and extending the themes present in both works.