A Comparative Study of the Representation Human/Nature Relationship in Selected Poems from Robert Frost and Sohrab Sepehri From an Ecocriticism Perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare human attitudes toward nature in works by two green poets, Sohrab Sepehri (1928-1980) and Robert Frost (1874-1964). The emergence of new approaches in the humanities, such as ecocriticism, to examine the relationship between literature and the environment in the text results from human life’s extensive growth in numerous dimensions and the resulting negative impact on the environment. In Frost’s poetry, the human being is presented with various options when confronted by nature. He has the option of viewing nature as a source of catastrophe and succumbing to it, or he can choose to fight nature, conquer it, or submit to it. Additionally, the individual can protect and respect the environment. The human is capable of coexisting with and benefiting from nature. On the other hand, Sepehri is a poet who learns about nature and discovers new forms of existence. Sepehri adores nature and regards it as superior to his anthropocentric world. These two poets share a philosophy of attitude toward nature and its elements. Both poets’ works are influenced by nature. One adores nature and is constantly reminded of it as if he sees it everywhere, and both poets are inspired by nature, but in very different ways. Sepehri and Frost have both established successful careers in poetry, but in contrast to Sohrab Sepehri’s romantic bent, Frost writes more simple poems that defy romantic convention. Sepehri and Frost’s poetry begins with joy and ends with knowledge. While Robert Frost lived in the modern era, he possessed a traditional worldview that set him apart from other poets. For example, unlike Sepehri, Frost is satisfied to stay in the terrestrial sphere and observe ordinary events; he is hesitant to travel beyond its borders. This comparative study examines the two poets’ divergent attitudes toward nature, emphasizing their distinctions.