The world around us, in its most simple form, varies among perspective. Each and every pair of eyes sees its own world and to a certain extent, hides what it does not want to see. Nature gives meaning to the words "optimism" and "pessimism" alike. In the same scenario under similar circumstances, objects are often seen through lenses that distort one's own perspective. A snake, for example, is a victim to both ends of the spectrum. To some (optimists), it is a creature of mechanical finesse - a beauty within the shell of individuality - a successful experimentation of evolution and survival. Pessimists, however, apply to the average snake fearful, threatening qualities. It is no longer a God-given creature, but a menacing animal built of sheer hatred - its blackened eyes that pierce through souls - fangs drawn and poised to strike - bodies contorted in unnatural positions.
In contrast with this popularized fear, Theodore Roethke's "Snake" is depicted as a shy animal, shrouded in its own stress and problems. It is seemingly without threat; instead, the "Snake" is portrayed as a victim to harsh conditions (lines 3-5). It is no menacing creature built of sheer hatred, but a childish animal pleading for change. The following stanza reveals a new snake, one that has figuratively escaped its faults and gone forth from its problems. Theodore Roethke's "Snake" and the stereotypical image of a Snake can be related to American Literature through their willingness to visualize another perspective. Over the course of western history, literature has adapted several times to the cultural ideologies. Culture evolves as more people step out of their "comfort zone" and question philosophies and social norms that were deemed appropriate at the time. All intellectual movements have superseded each other due only to a variation in perspective. In the poem "Snake," Theodore Roethke applies an optimistic skin to a malevolent species, exploring past societal views and witnessing another side to the average snake. This ambitious perception paved the way for American history and its literature.
