Poem Analysis - On The Hills

A Golden Afternoon of Autumn Delight

Lucy Maud Montgomery's "On the Hills" is a celebration of autumn's beauty and the joy of wandering through nature. The poem evokes a sense of blissful freedom and deep connection to the landscape. Initially, the tone is one of peaceful observation, transitioning to a feeling of playful companionship with nature, and ultimately resolving in contentment and gratitude. Montgomery masterfully uses imagery and personification to create a vibrant and inviting scene, drawing the reader into the heart of the autumnal experience.

Fleeting Beauty and the Embrace of Nature

One prominent theme in "On the Hills" is the fleeting nature of beauty and time. The poem emphasizes the "lingering year" that has "squandered" its sweetness, and the "dear ripe time that must pass so fleetly." This awareness of transience heightens the appreciation for the present moment and the splendor of the autumn landscape. The poem also explores the theme of communion with nature. The trees offer "friendly hands," the winds "croon" and "complain," and the goldenrod and asters seem to guide the wanderers. This personification suggests a deep connection between the speakers and their natural surroundings, blurring the lines between observer and observed.

Personification: Nature as Companion

The poem is rich in personification, transforming elements of nature into active participants in the wanderers' experience. The most striking example is the personification of the day as a female presence. Initially, the day "knelt like a pensive nun," representing a serene and contemplative aspect. However, "out on the hills, she was wild and free, / A comrade to wander right gipsily," offering a contrasting image of playful abandon. This duality suggests that nature can be both a source of quiet reflection and a spur to adventurous exploration. By presenting nature as a companion, Montgomery emphasizes its ability to offer solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.

Sunset as a Symbol of Completion

The sunset is a powerful symbol of completion and transition. The lines "far in the shining west / She has dropped her flowers on the sunset meadow" suggest a peaceful conclusion to the day's journey. The "flowers" dropped on the meadow can be interpreted as the final act of beauty offered by the day, a parting gift before yielding to the night. The movement towards "the kindly starshine and gathering shadow" represents a shift from the external world of nature to the internal world of home and hearth. This transition is not one of loss, but rather a natural progression, welcomed with contentment and gratitude.

Returning Home, Spiritually Fulfilled

In conclusion, "On the Hills" is a celebration of nature's beauty and its power to enrich the human spirit. Montgomery skillfully uses vivid imagery, personification, and a gentle tone to create an immersive experience for the reader. The themes of fleeting beauty, communion with nature, and the acceptance of transitions all contribute to the poem's overall message of finding joy and contentment in the present moment. The final image of returning "back to the light and the hearth of home" suggests a sense of spiritual fulfillment, achieved through the simple act of wandering and appreciating the wonders of the natural world. The poem leaves us with a lasting impression of the profound connection between humanity and nature, and the enduring power of beauty to nourish the soul.