The Journey by Mary Oliver has a very powerful message.  Through the use of several literary devices and unique syntax Oliver creates a very commanding poem that provides a cathartic and inspirational message for the reader. The poem is centered on the theme of conformity and self-discovery; that we must all be the protagonist of our own narratives and not allow others to make choices for us or aim to please anyone but ourselves. We must retain our sense of individuality by not giving into the “voices” that do nothing but “shout their bad advice” as Oliver states. Through the use of powerful implicit illustrations and various rhetorical devices Oliver is able to usher the reader towards a clear path to self-discovery and understanding the importance of staying true to ones self.

Oliver employs many literary techniques that enhance the effectiveness of her message. The poem is arranged in a very choppy way with very few breaks in stanza. This causes a fast-paced reading of a poem that corresponds to the message the author is attempting to deliver: life is short and we must hasten towards our goals.  Our goals are rooted in our thoughts and we must not allow others to distort the voices in our head or impede our progress. We must do our best to emerge as the most authentic version of ourselves. The voice acquired through this rebirth and discovery “keeps you company as you stride deeper and deeper into this world.” Listening to ourselves and being non-conformist doesn’t isolate us; rather, it helps us navigate us through the rough currents of life, where we will be pulled in various directions. This is a very powerful message for many of us who feel like untethered souls, without a purpose, living for the sake of pleasing others. Oliver uses vivid imagery to describe the distractions we encounter in life with images of “tug at our ankles” and a “road full of fallen branches and stone.” There is also an example of personification as she describes “the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundation” Many of the metaphors Oliver uses are connected to nature such as “branches and stones” and “sheets of clouds”  This is an appropriate connection since life mimics nature in many ways, most notably through it’s cycles of death and rebirth.  Oliver also makes specific reference to the plight of others. We will encounter many people who are facing struggles. As humans, we are all bounded by a common thread, which helps us display empathy and extend a hand to others in need. “Mend my life! Each voice cried. But you didn’t stop. You knew what you had to do.” Many of us find ourselves in this situation, being entrenched in the personal affairs of others that we often overlook our very own needs. Oliver beseeches us to let go and rescue ourselves first. Helping everyone we encounter along the path is an impossible undertaking. If we stay committed to ourselves and goals, we will reach clarity in our lives. The “sheets of cloud “ which represent confusion will be penetrated by the “stars” or guiding light and our “new voice” will be the ultimate source of purpose.