The summer solstice marks a shift in the year: everyday gradually becomes shorter, and closer to winter. In some religions, the summer solstice represents enlightenment, and new beginnings. The image of nature as pure is repeated throughout “Summer Solstice, New York City” by Sharon Olds. “Summer Solstice, New York City” relates the story of a man trying to commit suicide, but choosing life and finding comfort in the police sent to rescue him. Initially, the title seems irrelevant to the rest of the poem; however it reveals contrasts throughout the poem between nature and technology or corruption that display the reason for the man wanting to take but ultimately saving his life.
The summer solstice in and of itself