ECOPOETRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Abstract

This paper examines the emergence and evolution of ecopoetry in the 21st century as a literary response to environmental concerns and ecological crises. Ecopoetry, a genre that intertwines poetic expression with environmental activism and awareness, reflects a growing consciousness of humanity’s impact on the natural world. Through an analysis of contemporary ecopoetic works by poets such as Mary Oliver, Wendell Berry, and Joy Harjo, this study explores how these writers engage with environmental themes, ecological landscapes, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. The paper investigates how ecopoetry employs literary devices such as imagery, metaphor, and eco-mythology to evoke a sense of ecological urgency and ethical responsibility. Furthermore, it examines how ecopoetry challenges anthropocentric perspectives, advocating for environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation. By contextualizing ecopoetry within broader environmental movements and cultural shifts toward ecological awareness, this study seeks to illuminate how poetry contributes to shaping environmental discourse and inspiring collective action in response to contemporary environmental challenges. Keywords: Ecopoetry, environmental consciousness, 21st century literature, Mary Oliver, Wendell Berry, Joy Harjo, ecological landscapes, environmental activism, eco-mythology