Catalyst 4, 1993.

In Environmental Awareness, the poet presents a reflective and spiritually attuned meditation on the interdependence between human inner life and the state of the natural world. Rooted in a holistic worldview, the poem suggests that environmental degradation is not merely a physical or political issue, but a spiritual mirror of humanity’s inner disconnection.

The central premise—that “the spirit of Gaia lives within / Each and every one of us”—positions the natural world not as an external entity to be managed, but as an intimate, sacred presence embedded within the self. By invoking Gaia, the ancient Earth goddess, the poet introduces a mythopoetic dimension, grounding the ecological concern in a broader metaphysical framework.

The line “What is within is reflected without” serves as a thematic hinge, encapsulating the poem’s philosophy. The outer environment becomes a diagnostic surface upon which the collective human psyche is projected. This metaphysical approach transforms the ecological crisis into a call for inner awareness and personal healing.

The poem’s tone is measured and contemplative. The language is clear and accessible, favouring direct expression over metaphor or abstraction. The phrase “Self-love, -empowerment and -worth” is notable for its formal economy, using a typographic device to underscore the interconnectedness of these concepts while drawing attention to their shared root. This moment of visual emphasis subtly reinforces the poem’s theme: that self-relationship is foundational to global healing.

The structure of the poem—free verse with short, even lines—mirrors the meditative rhythm of its message. Each line is given space to resonate, creating a gentle, unfolding pace that invites reflection rather than urgency. This structural restraint supports the poem’s core message of inner harmony and alignment.

The closing lines advocate a vision of healing that begins internally and radiates outward into “our immediate surroundings.” In doing so, the poem resists abstraction and keeps its philosophy grounded in the everyday. The emphasis on “immediate surroundings” gently reminds the reader that spiritual awareness is not a distant ideal but a practice rooted in daily choices and perceptions.

In conclusion, Environmental Awareness is a sincere and quietly powerful poem that situates ecological concern within a framework of spiritual responsibility. The poet communicates this vision with clarity, calm conviction, and a tone of measured grace, offering a meaningful contribution to both ecological and contemplative literature.

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