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As a child, I used to have a secret dread - and a…

“As a child, I used to have a secret dread - and a recurring nightmare - of the whole world becoming city, being covered with cement and buildings and streets. No more country. No more woods.” quote by W. S. Merwin
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“As a child, I used to have a secret dread - and a recurring nightmare - of the whole world becoming city, being covered with cement and buildings and streets. No more country. No more woods.”

W. S. Merwin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A child’s fear that urbanization will erase nature, reflecting anxiety about loss of wilderness.

In simple terms: Fear of cities replacing nature.

Key Takeaway

Protect natural spaces.

Themes

environment urbanization nostalgia

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

environmental philosophical

When to use this quote

  • city planning
  • conservation
  • personal reflection
  • education
  • policy making

Key Concepts

ecocriticism loss of wilderness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance development and nature?
  • What actions preserve green spaces?
A Different Perspective

Progress can also bring benefits; fear may overlook them.

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