Reading Ted Hughes' "My Own True Family" as an Ecocritical Poem

Introduction:

Image by Simon from Pixabay

Ecocriticism is a literary theory that examines how literature represents and interacts with the environment, and it often seeks to promote environmental awareness and advocacy. Ted Hughes' "My Own True Family" can be analyzed as an ecocritical poem, where the focus is on exploring the relationship between humans and the natural world from an ecological perspective.  The speaker recounts a transformative experience in an oakwood. They encounter an old woman with a mysterious bag, and after a series of events, they find themselves surrounded by oak trees, which claim to be their true family. The oaks accuse the speaker of disregarding their fate and demand a promise from them. Let's explore deeper into how this poem aligns with ecocritical themes:

Connection to Nature: 

The poem portrays a profound connection between the speaker and the oak trees. The oak trees claim to be the speaker's "own true family," suggesting a sense of kinship and interconnectedness between humans and nature. This theme emphasizes the inherent bond between all living beings on Earth.

Ecological Responsibility:

 The demand made by the oak trees - to plant two trees for every one felled - highlights the idea of ecological responsibility. It calls for humans to be conscious of their actions and the impact they have on the environment. By taking on this responsibility, humans can ensure the preservation and regeneration of natural resources:

"We are chopped down, we are torn up, you do not blink an eye."

"Whenever you see an oak-tree felled, swear now you will plant two."

The accusation from the oak trees reveals the harm humans inflict upon nature without much thought or care. This line emphasizes the responsibility humans have in restoring and preserving nature. Planting two trees for every one cut down is a powerful way to ensure the environment's welfare.

Human-Nature Relationship:

Homage to Ted Hughes
 by Reginald Gray (2004), 
Bankfield Museum, Halifax

The encounter with the old woman and the oak trees symbolizes the blurred boundaries between humans and the natural world. The transformation of the speaker's heart into that of a tree suggests a deep emotional and spiritual connection with nature. It implies that humans are not separate from nature but an integral part of it:

"My walk was the walk of a human child, but my heart was a tree."

This concluding line highlights the transformation within the speaker. While physically human, they now carry the essence and empathy of a tree, demonstrating the unity and kinship between humans and nature. Infact, the speaker awakens from this encounter with a changed perspective. Although physically returning to human company, they feel that their heart now embodies the essence of a tree. This experience seems to have left a profound impact on the speaker, shaping their understanding of their connection to nature and the responsibility they hold towards it.

Environmental Awareness: 

The poem draws attention to the destruction of oak trees, which serves as a representation of environmental degradation. The accusation directed at the speaker for not reacting to this destruction aims to raise awareness about the need to protect and cherish the environment.

Nature's Agency:

 The oak trees in the poem possess agency and intelligence, speaking directly to the speaker and demanding a promise. This anthropomorphism serves to emphasize nature's presence and power, suggesting that it is not passive but an active and dynamic force that demands respect.

Symbolism of the Oakwood: 

The oakwood setting holds symbolic significance. Oaks are often associated with strength, longevity, and wisdom. The oakwood represents a sacred and natural space where transformative experiences can occur, underscoring the sanctity of the natural world.

"Once I crept in an oakwood - I was looking for a stag."

The poem sets the scene in a mystical oakwood, suggesting a childlike curiosity and innocence. The search for a stag symbolizes a connection to the wild and natural world.

"I met an old woman there - all knobbly stick and rag."

The description of the old woman adds an element of mystery and magic to the encounter. She represents a connection to ancient wisdom and the natural world. And the imagery of being tied to a stake and surrounded by staring trees portrays a surreal and intimidating moment, suggesting that nature is watching and judging humanity's actions.

Ecological Ethics: 

The poem raises ethical questions about humanity's treatment of the environment. It challenges readers to reflect on their relationship with nature and the moral obligation to protect and preserve the earth's ecosystems.

Conclusion:

As an ecocritical poem, "My Own True Family" serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize the intrinsic connection between humans and nature. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the environment and the adoption of sustainable practices to ensure the well-being of both humanity and the natural world. Again, the poem's focus on the protection of the natural environment for the welfare of mankind underlines the importance of environmental stewardship. It urges readers to recognize the intrinsic connection between humans and nature, emphasizing that harming the environment ultimately harms ourselves. By pledging to protect and nurture the natural world, we can thrive as a single family, living in harmony with the earth and all its inhabitants.

Ardhendu De