Wilderness vs Civilization
Wilderness Versus Civilization In “The Place, the Regions, and the Commons,” Gary Snyder discusses the importance of place when dealing with the environment and establishment of ideological hearths. The contrasting sides between the natural world and synthetic societies play a large part within the essay, for we must take a stand when determining our own personal place. Snyder cites many examples of how humanity’s search for place leads to the destruction of the natural world around us, such as overgrazing in the commons.
This clash between the necessity for a stable “place” and the universal needs of nature force us to find an equilibrium in which a comprehensive happiness can be reached. Snyder follows up on this environmental critique with a deeper philosophical mindset. He eagerly suggests the idea that our longing for “place” severely reflects our subconscious tendencies and realities. There are a frustrating number of examples of bioregional selfishness, such as the tragedy of the commons.
However, there are also a delightful abundance of examples that demonstrate the optimistic and altruistic deeds completed in order to insure the health of the habitat within. There are two sides of a coin when dealing with the darkness and purity of mankind as a whole. This same coin exists within us individually, and it is up to us to decide which side lands facing up. It is a difficult task to describe the inner conflicts that occur within myself solely through text. In order to properly express my true feelings and thoughts, another medium must be used.
In this scenario, it would be best to demonstrate my newfound resolve and terror through the eyes of a camera lens. Ever since I moved to Boone to begin my college career, I have begun a new personal era of introspection. I seek to know why I commit the corrupt sins that I succumb to, and why I choose to aid subjects that I could optionally neglect. By observing these hidden demons and saints within my soul, I am able to emulate it onto the surface and understand the world as a whole. As Susan Sontag eloquently points out: “As photographs give people an imaginary possession of a post that is unreal, they also help eople take possession of space in which they are insecure”. In essence, I feel that this picture aptly describes the state of wildness within our fabricated society. The leaf is being consumed by the manufactured acts of humanity, and I feel helpless as I gaze onto it’s decaying structure. My mind immediately begins to take responsibility for nature’s impending fall into this desolate land. The wildness within us inhibits our sympathies towards the habitats that we constantly surround ourselves with. Civilization is being dominated in this photograph.
The trees stand tall, the bushes lay as a shroud of eloquence atop a seething boredom of concrete. The mountains extend their hand to the sky, greeting it with a warm resolve. The wild side to myself would scuffle this minor victory for nature under the carpet and continue onwards, however the civilized side recognizes the absolutely exquisite act of defiance by the cosmos. As Snyder states: “The State is destroyed, but the mountains and rivers remain”, the wilderness ignores our presence almost as much as we tend to ignore it. rom the cataclysmic tendencies that plague most. In this fleeting moment of nonsensical entertainment, serenity is achieved and balance is restored; leaving the rest to remain asunder. The war between wilderness and civilization rages inside all of us. The guilt of our selfish actions is only matched by our desire for a better “place”. These individual conflicts add up to a cumulative impact on the region that we live in. It is apparent that the cruelty of man has influenced certain areas for the worse.
My exploration of Boone has led me to conclude that a somewhat stable symmetry between both sides has been formed. There is a sense of order within this town, for many advocates have cascaded a protective sheath around the weakening wild. Even as the nature dwindles away, it is merely retreating and waiting to have the last laugh. The resilience of nature will surely outlast the overabundance of man. This conclusion leaves me hollow and optimistic at the same time, clouding any absolute fulfillment within myself individually.
When mankind has free reign, the oversaturation of our greed typically poisons the vulnerable. This is why Snyder urges us to take great efforts in order to restore the equilibrium between civilization and the wilderness. Our time is beginning to run thin as the battle between both sides continue, but Snyder urges us to stay positive and learn from our mistakes in order to reach complete attainment in the future. ———————– I took this picture after the conclusion of my final class on Thursday.
I was in the process of contemplation when I looked down and noticed this lonesome leaf surrounded by the artificial landscape. I immediately felt that this small act of symbolism was worth capturing for eternity. It occurred just outside of the Central Dining Hall. I gazed upon the mountain skyline and noticed the rampant growth of trees from my lowered perspective on the ground. This observation made me smile, which led to the capturing of the photograph. By altering my perception of the world around me, I was able to obtain this earthly image.
I was extremely delighted to spectate my first game of Quidditch since arriving to my new home. The rambunctious cheers of both sides were only rivaled by the serene beauty brought upon by the landscape on Sanford Mall. I felt like this universal victory should be documented as a model for co-dominance between the wild and civilization. The leaves fall from the trees, as if they are jumping from the stands in an attempt to join the game. The men and women pay respect to the world around them by refraining
