Which poet is associated with the poem "The Chambered Nautilus"?

Enhance your poetry comprehension with the NAQT Poetry Test. Solidify concepts with dynamic questions, hints, and explanations. Prepare for excellence!

"The Chambered Nautilus" is a well-known poem written by Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. In this poem, Holmes uses the nautilus, a marine mollusk, as a metaphor for personal and spiritual growth. The structure of the nautilus shell, which spirals outward as the creature grows, becomes a symbol of the idea that one should build their life and aspirations toward greater understanding and enlightenment. This theme of growth and transcendence is central to the poem, illustrating key principles of Holmes's poetic style and philosophical outlook.

In contrast, the other poets mentioned—Sylvia Plath, John Greenleaf Whittier, and Robert Lowell—are known for different themes and styles in their respective works. Plath often explored intense personal emotions and psychological complexities, Whittier focused on social issues and moral themes, particularly related to Quaker beliefs, and Lowell was known for his confessional style of poetry that delves into personal and familial history. While all these poets made significant contributions to American literature, it is Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. who is specifically connected to "The Chambered Nautilus."

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