Isolation In The Poem 'Observing The Field'

In part one, “Observing the Field,” the speaker uses symbolism and a paradox to explain his feelings of isolation. In the beginning of the poem, the speaker is observing a snowy scenery, “Snow falling and night falling fast, oh, fast” (1). The speaker uses this paradox to contrast the black and white aspects of each element: the snow gives off a glimpse of light, while the night sky diminishes it. Here the speaker is transitioning into a depressed state of mind. As the light diminishes, he realizes he is beginning to lose connection with nature. While observing the field, “the ground almost covered smooth in snow, / But a few weeds and stubble showing last” (3-4). The snow symbolizes the cold, blank, empty feeling of loneliness and isolation;