A Divine Embrace: Eco-Spiritual Reflections in Seamus Heaney's Poem St. Kevin and the Blackbird

Abstract

Eco-spirituality merges ecology and spirituality, emphasizing the profound relationship between humans and nature while fostering moral responsibility toward all living beings. Seamus Heaney’s poem St. Kevin and the Blackbird serves as a poignant exploration of these themes through the character of St. Kevin. Selfless compassion of St. Kevin is captured in the poem. Even though he endures physical discomfort in protecting and nesting a blackbird, for the comfort of it embodies the ecospiritual principles of eco-stewardship with the natural world. Heaney portrays Kevin’s transformation into “a tree” as obviously due to his ecospiritual nature, where devotion to God transcends the personal realm and reaches the ecospiritual realm. Kevin’s experience illustrates that true spirituality arises from selflessness and ethical responsibility toward the environment. His change reflects his shift in thought from domination to partnership or equality. This study examines how the poem conveys eco-spiritual principles, urging readers to recognize the sacredness of nature and to live in harmony with it for the well-being of all.