The sonnet, a seemingly traditional poetic form, has been re-invented and re-examined by contemporary writers in the field of geography. These writers are using the traditional structure of the sonnet to explore the geographical landscapes of our modern world. By incorporating themes of nature, place, and human society, these sonnets provide a unique lens through which we can view and understand the ever-changing world around us.

One such contemporary sonnet writer is Gary Snyder, an American poet, essayist, and environmental activist. His sonnets often focus on the natural world and our relationship with it, highlighting the impact of human actions on the environment. In his poem “Four Changes”, Snyder uses the traditional structure of the sonnet to explore the interconnectedness of all living beings and showcases the delicate balance of nature that humans must learn to respect.

Another notable sonnet writer in the field of geography is Alice Oswald, a British poet and classicist. Her collection “Dart” is a series of sonnets that pay tribute to the river Dart in Devon, England. Through her vivid imagery and precise use of language, Oswald captures the essence of the river and the landscape it flows through. Her sonnets take the reader on a journey through time, from the river’s creation to its present state, highlighting the changes that have occurred in the environment over the years.

The intersection of geography and history is also explored by contemporary sonnet writers like Natasha Trethewey. In her collection “Native Guard”, Trethewey uses the sonnet form to examine the legacy of the American Civil War and its impact on the land and its people. Through her powerful and haunting sonnets, she sheds light on the forgotten stories and voices of those who were affected by the war, giving them a place in the historical and geographical narrative.

But it’s not just poets who are utilizing the sonnet form to explore issues of geography. Poet and professor Eamon Grennan co-authored “The Eternal City: Poems”. The book is a series of interconnected sonnets that reflect on the city of Rome and its rich history and geography. Grennan’s use of the sonnet form allows for a multi-layered exploration of the city, its past, present, and future, capturing the essence of a place that has been shaped by both human and natural forces.

The use of the sonnet form in contemporary geography not only allows for a deeper exploration of the physical world, but also of the emotional and psychological impact of our surroundings on individuals. In his collection “Eros and Echo”, poet and geography professor Gaston Bachelard uses the sonnet form to examine the relationship between place and memory. His sonnets evoke nostalgia and longing for past landscapes, showcasing the powerful connection between our sense of self and our surroundings.

Contemporary sonnet writers in the field of geography are not only bridging the gap between poetry and science, but also providing a new perspective on our complex relationship with the environment. Through their skillful use of language and form, they remind us that the world we live in is constantly changing and evolving and that we must strive to understand and protect it.

In conclusion, the contemporary sonnet writers in the field of geography are using this traditional form to shed light on the complexities of our modern world. Whether they are exploring the natural world and its delicate balance, or delving into the historical and psychological impacts of place, these poets are reshaping the sonnet into a powerful tool for understanding the ever-changing landscape of our world.