journey mary oliver

The Journey

By mary oliver.

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice— though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. "Mend my life!" each voice cried. But you didn't stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations, though their melancholy was terrible. It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do— determined to save the only life you could save.

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The Journey Summary & Analysis by Mary Oliver

• Line-by-Line Explanation & Analysis
• Poetic Devices
• Vocabulary & References
• Form, Meter, & Rhyme Scheme
• Line-by-Line Explanations

Mary Oliver's "The Journey" first appeared in her 1963 collection No Voyage and Other Poems . The poem is about the importance of taking charge of one's own life and leaving behind negative influences. Despite being one of Oliver's more personal poems, and including references to real events in Oliver's life, many readers will identity with its themes of self-reliance and integrity. This has helped to secure its place as one of the most popular poems from one of America's most popular poets.

• Read the full text of “The Journey”

The Full Text of “The Journey”

“the journey” summary, “the journey” themes.

The Importance of Self-Reliance

Line-by-line explanation & analysis of “the journey”.

One day you ... ... bad advice —

though the whole ... ... at your ankles.

Lines 10-13

"Mend my life!" ... ... had to do,

Lines 14-18

though the wind ... ... was terrible.

Lines 19-22

It was already ... ... branches and stones.

Lines 23-26

But little by ... ... sheets of clouds,

Lines 27-29

and there was ... ... as your own,

Lines 30-32

that kept you ... ... into the world,

Lines 33-36

determined to do ... ... you could save.

“The Journey” Symbols

• Lines 6-7: “though the whole house / began to tremble”
• Lines 14-16: “though the wind pried / with its stiff fingers / at the very foundations,”

• Lines 25-26: “the stars began to burn / through the sheets of clouds,”

“The Journey” Poetic Devices & Figurative Language

• Lines 3-4: “though the voices around you / kept shouting”
• Lines 14-15: “though the wind pried / with its stiff fingers”
• Lines 17-18: “though their melancholy / was terrible.”
• Line 33: “determined to do”
• Line 35: “determined to save”

Extended Metaphor

• Lines 19-26: “It was already late / enough, and a wild night, / and the road full of fallen / branches and stones. / But little by little, / as you left their voice behind, / the stars began to burn / through the sheets of clouds,”
• Lines 31-32: “as you strode deeper and deeper / into the world,”

Personification

• Lines 1-2: “knew / what”
• Lines 3-4: “you / kept”
• Lines 4-5: “shouting / their”
• Lines 6-7: “house / began”
• Lines 7-8: “tremble / and”
• Lines 8-9: “tug / at”
• Lines 14-15: “pried / with”
• Lines 15-16: “fingers / at”
• Lines 17-18: “melancholy / was”
• Lines 19-20: “late / enough”
• Lines 21-22: “fallen / branches”
• Lines 25-26: “burn / through”
• Lines 27-28: “voice / which”
• Lines 28-29: “slowly / recognized”
• Lines 30-31: “company / as”
• Lines 31-32: “deeper / into”
• Lines 33-34: “do / the”
• Lines 35-36: “save / the”
• Lines 1-2: “you finally knew / what you had to do”
• Line 13: “You knew what you had to do”
• Line 23: “little by little”
• Line 31: “deeper and deeper”
• Lines 35-36: “to save / the only life that you could save.”
• Line 1: “One,” “finally,” “knew”
• Line 6: “whole,” “house”
• Line 7: “to,” “tremble”
• Line 8: “felt,” “tug”
• Line 9: “at”
• Line 15: “stiff,” “fingers”
• Line 16: “foundations”
• Line 17: “melancholy”
• Line 18: “terrible”
• Line 19: “already,” “late”
• Line 20: “wild”
• Line 21: “full,” “fallen”
• Line 22: “stones”
• Line 23: “little,” “little”
• Line 24: “behind”
• Line 25: “began,” “burn”
• Line 30: “kept,” “company”
• Line 31: “deeper,” “deeper”
• Line 33: “determined,” “do”
• Line 34: “do”
• Line 35: “determined”

Alliteration

• Line 15: “fingers”
• Line 22: “branches”
• Line 23: “But”
• Line 1: “knew”
• Line 2: “you,” “do”
• Line 3: “you”
• Line 10: “life”
• Line 11: “cried”
• Line 13: “knew,” “you,” “do”
• Line 14: “wind”
• Line 15: “with,” “its,” “stiff,” “fingers”
• Line 20: “wild,” “night”
• Line 28: “slowly”
• Line 29: “own”
• Line 31: “strode”

“The Journey” Vocabulary

Select any word below to get its definition in the context of the poem. The words are listed in the order in which they appear in the poem.

• (Location in poem: Lines 10-11: “"Mend my life!" / each voice cried.”)

Form, Meter, & Rhyme Scheme of “The Journey”

Rhyme scheme, “the journey” speaker, “the journey” setting, literary and historical context of “the journey”, more “the journey” resources, external resources.

The Poem Out Loud — Listen to a recording of Oliver reading "The Journey."

Oliver's Life and Work — Learn more about Oliver in this biography from the Poetry Foundation.

The Summer Day — Another of Oliver's best known poems, which similarly touches on the theme of taking charge of one's own life and happiness.

Mary Oliver and Amazement — An article by Rachel Syme about Oliver's legacy for the New Yorker.

Oliver's Obituary — Read Oliver's 2019 obituary in The Washington Post.

LitCharts on Other Poems by Mary Oliver

Good-Bye Fox

The Black Walnut Tree

The Summer Day

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“The Journey” by Mary Oliver: A Complete Analysis

March 8, 2024 | by poemread.com

Mary Oliver’s “The Journey” is a beacon of inspiration for those standing at the crossroads of change. It’s a poem that speaks to the soul’s deepest yearning for freedom and self-discovery. In this analysis, we’ll delve into the essence of Oliver’s work, exploring the subject, context, theme, tone, and structure that make “The Journey” a masterpiece of modern poetry.

About the Author

The context of ‘the journey’, the theme of “the journey” by mary oliver, the tone of the poem, the form and structure of the poem, line-by-line analysis.

• Poetic and Literary Devices in "The Journey"

Interactive Summary of “The Journey”

Mary Oliver, born on September 10, 1935, in Maple Heights, Ohio, was a poet celebrated for her profound connection to the natural world and her ability to capture its essence with clarity and simplicity. Growing up in semi-rural Ohio, Oliver found solace in nature from a young age, which would become a central theme in her poetry.

Despite facing personal challenges, she turned to writing as a means of coping and self-expression, beginning her poetic journey at just 14 years old. Oliver’s literary career blossomed with the publication of her first collection, “No Voyage and Other Poems,” in 1963, paving the way for a series of acclaimed works that earned her numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1984 for “American Primitive.”

Throughout her career, Oliver’s poetry remained rooted in her love for nature, exploring themes of life, death, and the human experience with profound insight and accessibility. Though she passed away on January 17, 2019, her legacy lives on through her timeless poetry, which continues to inspire and resonate with readers worldwide, offering solace and guidance on life’s journey.

Mary Oliver’s “The Journey” is more than just a poem; it’s a reflection of a pivotal moment in the author’s life, as well as a universal call to self-reliance and integrity. First appearing in her 1963 collection “No Voyage and Other Poems,” this piece stands out as one of Oliver’s more personal works, weaving in threads of her own experiences with broader, relatable themes.

A Personal Undertone

The poem’s context is deeply rooted in Oliver’s own narrative. It speaks to the importance of taking charge of one’s life, a theme that resonates with the poet’s personal journey of overcoming negative influences and finding her own voice. The authenticity of the poem is heightened by its references to real events in Oliver’s life, making it a testament to the power of personal transformation.

A Universal Appeal

While “The Journey” is intimate in its origins, its message extends far beyond the personal. It taps into the collective experience of facing life’s challenges and the courage required to step away from the familiar and venture into the unknown. The poem encapsulates the struggle between the comfort of conformity and the daunting, yet rewarding, path of individuality.

The Metaphorical Path

Oliver uses the metaphor of a journey not just as a physical voyage but as an emotional and psychological expedition. The poem captures the tumultuous process of leaving behind an “unhealthy life” to embark on a new, more authentic existence. It’s about the critical juncture where one decides to listen to their inner voice, despite the cacophony of external pressures and expectations.

The Voice of Change

As the poem progresses, the transformation becomes evident. The initial chaos and struggle give way to a sense of purpose and clarity. The “new voice” that emerges is a symbol of self-discovery and empowerment, guiding the protagonist—and, by extension, the reader—towards a life that is truly their own.

Mary Oliver’s “The Journey” is a profound exploration of self-discovery and the courage to embrace change. The poem’s central theme revolves around the importance of self-reliance and integrity, urging readers to take charge of their own lives and leave behind negative influences.

Self-Reliance as a Beacon

The theme of self-reliance is the poem’s guiding light. It illuminates the path to personal freedom and authenticity. Oliver’s words encourage us to listen to our inner voice, even when it leads us away from the comfort of the known and into the wilderness of the self.

Integrity Amidst the Noise

Integrity is another cornerstone of the poem. It’s about staying true to oneself in a world that often demands conformity. The poem depicts the struggle of the individual against the cacophony of external pressures and the triumph of personal conviction over collective expectations.

The Journey of Change

Change is an inevitable part of life, and Oliver’s poem embraces this reality. It speaks to the transformative power of taking bold steps towards a new life, even when the path is fraught with obstacles and uncertainty.

Renewal and Strength

Renewal and strength emerge as sub-themes, particularly towards the poem’s conclusion. As the protagonist strides deeper into the world, there’s a sense of rejuvenation and the dawning of a new chapter. This represents the inner strength required to forge one’s own path and the optimism that accompanies such a journey.

The tone of Mary Oliver’s “The Journey” is a complex interplay of encouragement and solemnity, reflecting the poem’s deep exploration of personal growth and self-discovery. It begins with a sense of urgency and seriousness as the speaker recognizes the need for change. The “voices” of doubt and discouragement that the person must overcome emphasize this seriousness by adding a layer of tension and conflict to the poem’s opening lines.

As the poem progresses, the tone shifts to one of resilience and hope. Despite the challenges and “the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations,” there is a sense of determination and strength that begins to emerge. The speaker’s journey is fraught with obstacles, yet there is an underlying current of optimism that propels them forward.

The culmination of the poem has a tone of triumph and liberation. The “new voice” that the speaker hears and recognizes as their own signifies a breakthrough, a moment of clarity, and empowerment. The stars burning “through the sheets of clouds” serve as a metaphor for this newfound enlightenment and freedom.

Throughout “The Journey,” Oliver masterfully uses tone to convey the emotional landscape of the speaker’s journey. It has a tone that resonates with many readers, as it captures the universal experience of overcoming adversity to find one’s true self. The poem’s tone, therefore, is not just a reflection of the speaker’s internal state but also an invitation to the reader to embark on their own journey of self-discovery.

The form and structure of Mary Oliver’s “The Journey” are integral to its impact as a work of poetry. The poem is composed in free verse, which means it doesn’t adhere to traditional patterns of meter or rhyme. This choice reflects the poem’s theme of breaking free from the constraints of the past and embarking on a new path.

The poem’s form is fluid, with lines that vary in length and create a sense of natural speech. This mirrors the journey’s unpredictable nature, where there is no set pattern to follow, and each step is taken based on instinct and necessity rather than predetermined rules.

“The Journey” is structured as a single, unbroken stanza of thirty-six lines. This uninterrupted flow of text represents the continuous movement forward that the speaker experiences. The lack of stanza breaks also suggests that the journey is a singular, transformative experience that cannot be segmented or paused.

Line Breaks

Oliver uses line breaks strategically to emphasize key moments and to control the poem’s rhythm. These breaks can signify a pause for reflection, or a breath taken in the midst of a revelation. They guide the reader through the emotional landscape of the poem, creating a pace that mirrors the speaker’s internal journey.

Punctuation

The minimal use of punctuation in “The Journey” contributes to the poem’s sense of urgency and immediacy. By forgoing the typical constraints of punctuation, Oliver allows the reader to move more freely through the text, experiencing the poem’s momentum and the speaker’s determination to forge ahead.

While “The Journey” largely eschews a regular rhyme scheme, Oliver does incorporate moments of half or slant rhyme as well as occasional full rhymes. These instances provide a subtle rhythmic unity without confining the poem to a strict pattern. They serve as reminders of the poem’s literary craft, even as it celebrates the freedom of form and content.

As for the meter, “The Journey” does not follow a strict metrical structure. This is typical of free-verse poetry. They often prioritize the natural cadence of speech over a regular metrical pattern. The lack of a fixed meter allows the poem to mirror the ebb and flow of the speaker’s thoughts and emotions. This contributes to the narrative’s authenticity and immediacy.

In summary, the form and structure of “The Journey” are carefully crafted to reflect the poem’s central themes. The free verse form, the single stanza structure, the strategic line breaks, the minimal punctuation, and the occasional rhymes all work together to create a poem that is as much about the journey of reading as it is about the journey it describes.

Line 1-2: “One day you finally knew / what you had to do, and began,”

Here, Oliver sets the stage for the protagonist’s journey towards self-realization. The use of “you” makes the poem immediately relatable, inviting readers to step into the shoes of the protagonist as they embark on their own quest for clarity and purpose.

Line 3-5: “though the voices around you / kept shouting / their bad advice —”

These lines illustrate the external pressures and distractions that often hinder personal growth. The “voices” represent societal expectations and influences, urging the protagonist to conform to conventional norms rather than follow their true calling.

“Shouting” emphasizes the persistence and intrusiveness of these outside pressures. The advice is labeled “bad” because it conflicts with the speaker’s newfound understanding and the journey they must undertake.

Line 6-7: “though the whole house / began to tremble”

The “house” likely represents the speaker’s life or the environment they are familiar with. It’s a metaphor for the established order that is now being questioned. Furthermore, the trembling house serves as a metaphor for the upheaval caused by the protagonist’s decision to break free from societal constraints. It symbolizes the resistance and chaos that accompany moments of radical change.

Line 8-9: “and you felt the old tug / at your ankles.”

This line conveys the resistance to change, the pull of past habits, and the comfort of the known, which attempts to keep the speaker from moving forward. Additionally, the specificity of “ankles” implies a force that tries to hold the speaker down, preventing them from taking steps towards their journey.

Line 10-11: “‘Mend my life!’ / each voice cried.”

The repetition of “Mend my life!” emphasizes the desperation of the voices clamoring for attention. It highlights the protagonist’s struggle to reconcile their own desires with the demands of others, echoing the universal conflict between self-care and external obligations. The collective nature of the “voices” underscores the overwhelming nature of the demands and expectations placed upon the speaker.

Line 12-13: “But you didn’t stop. / You knew what you had to do,”

These lines convey the protagonist’s resolute determination to follow their own path, despite the cacophony of conflicting voices. It underscores the importance of inner conviction and self-assurance in the face of adversity.

Line 14-15: “though the wind pried / with its stiff fingers”

The personification of the wind, “prying with its stiff fingers,” evokes a sense of relentless pressure and resistance. It symbolizes the external forces that seek to deter the protagonist from their chosen course, yet ultimately fail to sway their resolve.

Line 16-18: “at the very foundations, / though their melancholy / was terrible.”

The foundations represent the most fundamental aspects of the speaker’s life. The wind’s prying suggests that the journey is shaking the speaker to their core, challenging their most deeply held beliefs or sense of security. Then, the melancholy likely refers to the voices or the emotional atmosphere surrounding the speaker.

It’s a collective sadness that weighs heavily on the speaker, adding emotional depth to the physical struggle. Additionally, the word “terrible” conveys the intensity of the emotional struggle. It’s not just passing sadness, but a powerful sense of despair that the speaker must overcome.

Line 19-20: “It was already late / enough, and a wild night,”

These lines convey a sense of urgency and peril as the protagonist confronts the daunting task of self-discovery amidst the darkness of uncertainty. The “wild night” serves as a metaphor for the difficult journey ahead, filled with obstacles and unknown dangers.

Line 21-22: “and the road full of fallen / branches and stones.”

The imagery of the road strewn with obstacles—fallen branches and stones—underscores the challenges inherent in forging a new path. It symbolizes the difficulties and setbacks that accompany personal growth, yet it also hints at the potential for transformation and renewal.

Line 23-24: “But little by little, / as you left their voice behind,”

Here, Oliver captures the gradual process of shedding external influences and embracing inner clarity. The protagonist begins to distance themselves from the voices of doubt and conformity, moving closer towards self-realization with each step.

Line 25-26: “the stars began to burn / through the sheets of clouds,”

This line heralds a shift in perspective, as the stars piercing through the clouds symbolize moments of illumination and insight. It suggests that clarity emerges from the darkness, guiding the protagonist towards a deeper understanding of their own truth.

Moreover, clouds often represent confusion or obstacles. The stars’ ability to shine through the clouds suggests that the speaker’s newfound clarity is powerful enough to overcome any remaining uncertainty or barriers.

Line 27-29: “and there was a new voice / which you slowly / recognized as your own,”

The emergence of a new voice represents the speaker’s own thoughts and desires becoming clearer and more influential as they progress on their journey. The adverb “slowly” reinforces the gradual nature of the speaker’s transformation and the careful attention they are paying to this emerging sense of self.

Furthermore, recognition of the voice as their own signifies a moment of self-realization and acceptance, a critical step in the journey towards autonomy and authenticity. Overall, these lines signify the protagonist’s transition from uncertainty to confidence as they embrace their authentic identity and purpose.

Lines 30-31: “that kept you company / as you strode deeper and deeper”

This line conveys a sense of companionship and reassurance, as the newfound inner voice accompanies the protagonist on their journey of self-exploration. It suggests a growing sense of self-assurance and resilience in the face of adversity.

Line 32-33: “into the world, / determined to do”

The protagonist’s determination to venture “deeper and deeper into the world” reflects their commitment to fully engage with life’s challenges and opportunities. It underscores their resolve to pursue their own path with courage and conviction.

Line 34-35: “the only thing you could do — / determined to save”

In these final lines, Oliver encapsulates the essence of the protagonist’s journey: the unwavering commitment to save themselves. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-preservation, reminding readers that true salvation begins with honoring one’s own needs and aspirations.

Line 36- “the only life that you could save .”  

The poem concludes with a powerful statement of self-preservation and empowerment. The speaker recognizes that the most important life they can save is their own, emphasizing the ultimate responsibility each person has for their own happiness and destiny.

Check this video of Chris Thile, reciting the poem “The Journey.”

Poetic and Literary Devices in “The Journey”

1. Metaphor: Throughout the poem, Mary Oliver employs metaphorical language to convey deeper meanings. The journey described in the poem serves as a metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery, symbolizing the protagonist’s transformative experience.

2. Personification: Oliver personifies abstract concepts such as “the voices” and “the wind,” giving them human-like qualities. This literary device adds depth to the poem by making these elements feel more tangible and relatable to the reader.

3. Imagery: Vivid imagery is used to paint a picture of the protagonist’s inner and outer landscape. The descriptions of the trembling house, the wind prying with its stiff fingers, and the road full of fallen branches and stones evoke a sense of turmoil and uncertainty, mirroring the protagonist’s internal struggles.

4. Repetition: The repetition of the phrase “Mend my life!” emphasizes the persistence of external pressures and the protagonist’s resolve to overcome them. This repetition adds rhythm and emphasis to the poem, reinforcing its central themes.

5. Symbolism: Various symbols are employed throughout the poem to convey deeper meanings. For example, the stars burning through the clouds symbolize moments of clarity and insight, while the protagonist’s recognition of their own voice represents a newfound sense of self-awareness and empowerment.

6. Enjambment: Oliver utilizes enjambment, or the continuation of a sentence without a pause beyond the end of a line, to create a sense of flow and momentum in the poem. This technique adds to the fluidity of the narrative, allowing the reader to experience the journey alongside the protagonist in real-time.

7. Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds, such as in the phrase “though the wind pried with its stiff fingers,” creates a sense of rhythm and musicality in the poem. This use of alliteration adds to the overall texture and aesthetic appeal of the writing.

“ The Journey ” by Mary Oliver is a compelling poem that narrates the emotional and mental challenges one faces when deciding to leave behind an unhealthy life and start anew. The speaker, using second-person narration, invites the reader to step into the shoes of someone who has reached a pivotal moment in their life, recognizing the need for change. Despite the clamor of voices urging a return to the past, the individual persists, braving an uneven path toward a new existence.

As the poem unfolds, it’s revealed that the journey is fraught with obstacles, symbolized by the wind, a wild night, and a road scattered with debris. Yet, the traveler perseveres, gradually distancing themselves from the voices of the past and drawing strength from within. A new voice emerges, one that the traveler slowly recognizes as their own, providing companionship and guidance as they delve deeper into uncharted territory.

The poem concludes with a powerful realization: the only life a traveler can save is their own. This epiphany encapsulates the themes of self-reliance, strength, and renewal that are woven throughout the narrative.

The structure of the poem, free from rigid rhyme schemes, mirrors the theme of liberation, while the use of poetic devices like metaphor, enjambment, and imagery enriches the text with rhythmic unity and emotional depth.

In essence, “The Journey” is a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery and the indomitable human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and chart a new course.

If you’re curious about Mary Oliver’s poetry , don’t miss her acclaimed work “Wild Geese,” which beautifully captures the essence of nature and humanity.

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Mary Oliver

The journey.

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Other works by Mary Oliver...

Hello, sun in my face. Hello, you who make the morning and spread it over the fields and into the faces of the tulips and the nodding morning glories,

Come with me into the field of sunflowers. Their faces are burnished disks, their dry spines creak like ship masts,

At Blackwater Pond the tossed wat… after a night of rain. I dip my cupped hands. I drink a long time. It tastes like stone, leaves, fire. It falls…

Not quite four a.m., when the rapt… strikes me from sleep, and I rise from the comfortable bed and go to another room, where my books ar… in their neat and colorful rows. H…

Needing one, I invented her— the great-great-aunt dark as hicko… called Shining-Leaf, or Drifting… or The-Beauty-of-the-Night. Dear aunt, I’d call into the leav…

centerYou are standing at the edge… at twilight when something begins to sing, like a waterfall pouring down

The spirit likes to dress up like this: ten fingers, ten toes, shoulders, and all the rest

I know someone who kisses the way a flower opens, but more rapidly. Flowers are sweet. They have short, beatific lives. They offer much pleasure. There is

When death comes like the hungry bear in autumn; when death comes and takes all the… to buy me, and snaps the purse shu… when death comes

I thought the earth remembered me, she took me back so tenderly, arranging her dark skirts, her poc… full of lichens and seeds. I slept as never before, a stone o…

All winter the water has crashed over the cold the cold sand. Now it breaks over the thin branch of your body.

Meditation is old and honorable, s… not sit, every morning of my life,… looking into the shining world? Be… attended to, delight, as well as h… Can one be passionate about the ju…

Have you ever seen anything in your life more wonderful than the way the sun,

Fat, black, slick, galloping in the pitch of the waves, in the pearly fields of the sea,

Don’t call this world adorable, or… It’s frisky, and a theater for mor… The eyelash of lightning is neithe… The struck tree burns like a pilla… But the blue rain sinks, straight…

The Practice

Counselling and psychotherapy in central london, poems of transformation: the journey, by mary oliver.

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice– though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. “Mend my life!” each voice cried. But you didn’t stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations, though their melancholy was terrible. It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do– determined to save the only life you could save.

–Mary Oliver

The Journey is a poem of transformation. It speaks of the moment when you dare . When you dare to listen to your own truth and set sail into a new life.

It is a poem in which you might catch a reflection of your own story. It invites you to find yourself and your own experience at its centre–the experience of a kind of knowing . A knowing that may lie dormant perhaps for many years, then one day suddenly bursts into life. A knowing that reveals the true journey of your life.

Perhaps this all sounds a bit too dramatic—but this poem can speak to anyone, wherever you are on your journey. Yet it is not quite enough merely to know . You have to take that first step in the dark, you have to begin though you are uncertain and filled with doubt. The mystic-poet Rumi said,

Start walking, start walking towards Shams, Your legs will get heavy and tired. Then comes the moment of feeling the wings you’ve grown lifting.

It can take a lifetime to prepare for the moment when this kind of knowing comes. A lifetime of being softened, broken down, and cooked in grief or mourning, while not essential, tends to pave the way into a new life for many. A new life requires a death of some kind, a letting go. What you let go of is a way of being in the world that you have outgrown.

And yet there are no guarantees. You cannot know where the road will take you. Nevertheless embarking upon the ‘road less travelled’ is an essential human experience. On some deep level every human heart yearns to follow its archetypal path.

“The Journey” speaks to the birth of a new self, a deeper identity that was in you all along. This new self does not flee from the world, but walks deeply into it. You cannot know where its voice will lead you. But you alone can respond to its call.

Artwork by Morri

Words for the Year

"drink from the well of your self and begin again" ~charles bukowski

“The Journey” by Mary Oliver

It seems fitting to end pause our journey  as we began it two years ago . . . with Mary Oliver. Thank you all for an enriching and rewarding two years, and for choosing to spend your days with us.

If you have a favorite poem you’d like to see featured on Words for the Year, please let me know via the contact page  or on our recent post, “ On the Future of Words for the Year .” Hopefully we can share it with our readers. 

Thank you for your support, your interest, and your words. ~ Christy 

The Journey

by Mary Oliver

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice – though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. “Mend my life!” each voice cried. But you didn’t stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations, though their melancholy was terrible. It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do – determined to save the only life you could save.

-Mary Oliver, from Dream Work

Poet David Whyte on Mary Oliver’s “The Journey”

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9 thoughts on “ “the journey” by mary oliver ”.

I have read this poem many, many times. It is a true comfort. My family background has a similarity to hers, and I often feel as though she wrote this poem directly to me. I’m sure others have the same experience.

Thank you for your daily posts. It’s especially pleasurable when you bring me an author whose work I’ve not seen before.

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I love the similarity between Oliver’s and Whyte’s separate poems of the same name.

It’s a special treat to hear David’s voice read her work.

I appreciate your comments and perspective this year, Brian, thank you.

oh Christy… thank you so much for the joy of these past two years? really? seems like 2 minutes, 2 very pleasurable and wonderful minutes

and my WOTY post….you might see a very familiar poem in it, and that just proves what a few of us have been saying, “great minds…”..LOL

I can’t wait.

Two years have passed very quickly. Funny, I wondered at first if I could even do something like this…a post a day for a year. Even with other words not my own. The commitment scared the bejesus out of me. Which was part of why I did it. Now the letting go of a project I’ve grown to love like air, is just as uncomfortable. Which is also why I’m letting go. But only for a short while. Open. Grasp. Open. Grasp. Open.

I can’t remember how I found you and your blog, but your words have kept me afloat these past eighteen months. Thank you, Christy. Happy New Year. May the days to come bring you wonderful joy.

Hannah, hello! I wish you another peaceful year of healing and comfort and maybe even some happiness too.

Oddly enough, I do remember! We each found each other separately, right around the same time. … I found you from my personal writing account at Running on Sober (as Christy Anna) when WP freshly pressed your “books on grief” post.

And right around then, you found this site (and me as Christina’s Words) thanks to Neruda’s love sonnets (if I die, survive me with such force…). My stats jumped like crazy that day, so I looked into why out of curiosity…

When I realized the crazy coincidence I just had to shake my head in marvel. I don’t think I ever told you that, but know that your own work has saved me too, continents away.

After a brief practice in letting go, I’ll be back. 🙂 stay tuned for some reader favorites while I’m away. Maybe I’ll even re-run those Neruda sonnets for you.

Love, Christy

I can’t believe I just discovered this wonderful site on this the last day! I will be going back to the beginning and starting at the top:)

Welcome! Glad you found the site. We’ll be back soon, but there should be plenty of good material to keep you reading for a while. 🙂

I borrowed your poem, Christy. Thank you so much for sharing it. ❤

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The Journey by Mary Oliver

Two of my dear friends, both poets, are celebrating their birthdays today. I am not religious, but their presence in my life makes me feel blessed. Their friendship means so much to me.

But this one is especially for you, S. You’re lovely. Thank you.

The Journey Mary Oliver One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice— though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. “Mend my life!” each voice cried. But you didn’t stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations, though their melancholy was terrible. It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do— determined to save the only life you could save.

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Comments (3)

i stumbled upon your website looking for benilda santos poems. in any case, i don’t know if i should thank you or curse you. i am in the process of dying, so that i can live again. please post poems of that nature.

This is absolute perfection. This poem describes everything.

Karen Miller

This poem was read throughout a yoga retreat that I attended this past weekend. The line…”determined to do the only thing you could do— determined to save the only life you could save.” It resonated to my core! Your choice of words were perfect for me in my life. What a gift you have! Thank you!

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• Mary Oliver: A Beacon of Hope in Poetry

When it comes to poets who encapsulate the essence of hope in their verses, Mary Oliver stands out as a luminary. Renowned for her contemplative and nature-focused poetry, Oliver's words possess a remarkable ability to uplift and inspire, offering solace and renewal to a weary soul. In this article, we will delve into a few of Oliver's poignant works that beautifully explore the theme of hope.

1. "The Journey"

2. "wild geese", 3. "when death comes".

In her iconic poem "The Journey," Mary Oliver invites readers to embark on a metaphorical pilgrimage towards self-discovery and transformation. The poem encourages us to have hope in the face of uncertainty and to trust ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. One of the most uplifting lines in the poem reads:

"One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice."

This excerpt resonates deeply, reminding us that even when surrounded by negativity, we can find the strength within ourselves to pursue our true purpose and follow our hearts.

"Wild Geese" is an exquisite poem that speaks to the power of hope and connectedness. Oliver's words encourage us to embrace our authentic selves, to accept our imperfections, and to find solace in the natural world. The poem begins with the immortal lines:

"You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting." (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

These verses remind us that hope is not contingent upon perfection or self-punishment. Oliver urges us to release the burdens that hold us back and instead find solace and joy in the simple wonders that surround us.

In her poem "When Death Comes," Oliver offers a profound reflection on life's impermanence and the hope that arises from living fully and authentically. She writes:

"When it's over, I want to say: all my life I was a bride married to amazement. I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms."

This poignant excerpt reminds us that life's transient nature should not deter us from embracing its beauty. Oliver's words encourage us to approach each day with a sense of wonder and awe, embracing every opportunity for joy and growth.

Through her evocative poetry, Mary Oliver invites readers to embrace the power of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there are glimpses of light and beauty to be found. Her words inspire us to seek solace in nature, trust our inner voice, and live authentically. Oliver's poems serve as a gentle reminder that hope is not only found in grand gestures but also in the quiet moments of reflection and connection with the world around us.

So, let us find solace in Oliver's verses, allowing her poetry to ignite a flame of hope within our hearts and guide us towards a more meaningful and purposeful existence.

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‘The Journey’ by Mary Oliver

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice – – – though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. ‘Mend my life!’ each voice cried. But you didn’t stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations – – – though their melancholy was terrible. It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice, which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do – – – determined to save the only life you could save.

Here is another poem by Mary Oliver that I love. As always, her language is fresh and deft, and simple in the way that wisdom is always simple. There is almost something Hemingway-esque about its simplicity.

I think that this poem is a very beautiful description of what it is like to discover one’s vocation. A vocation is something you “[have] to do”, something you will gravitate toward despite the “bad advice” and the “old tug” of those around you pulling you back or in other directions.

And there is always a moment where you must “[leave] their voices behind”, and when you do, the “stars [begin] to burn”. Suddenly, you can hear your own voice and it “[keeps] you company”. I love the description of the burning stars here; the world is brighter, richer, and more beautiful when you are doing the thing you were born to do. The burning stars deliver a sense of beauty, but they also make me think of the idea of destiny or fate — as though the stars are burning with pleasure that their decree is being carried out.

A vocation could be anything: it could be being a writer, a painter, a mother, a priest, a good friend… Whatever it is, it is the “only thing you could do” and yours is the “only life you could save”. I firmly believe that everybody on this earth has a vocation — a thing that they were born to do — the “only thing” they could do. But it always takes courage to do it.

Reviewed by Emily Ardagh

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Mary Oliver’s ‘The Journey’ is a Poem for Those Looking to Make a Change

posted on November 5, 2020

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            It’s important to take care of yourself on this journey called life. With work and social obligations eating up a lot of time, self-care and growth can fall to the wayside. When looking for inspiration to go in a different direction, poetry is an excellent place to turn.

            Mary Oliver’s ‘The Journey’ is a poem that makes you think. Known for writing about nature, this poem strays from the poet’s usual path. Most importantly, it makes you think about yourself. If you’re starting introspective journey for a new path, you have come to the right place. 

The Journey

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice — though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. “Mend my life!” each voice cried. But you didn’t stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations, though their melancholy was terrible. It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voice behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do — determined to save the only life that you could save.

              “The Journey” tells the story of someone on, well, a journey. They start at a turning point, where they know it is time to leave things behind to move forward on a new life path. The reader is not given a straight answer on where they are going, but they are led through the things that brought them to this decision.

            There is bad advice being given, and the person is being pressured to help those around them without any time for themselves. They have gotten to a point of no return, no going back. They know they need to move on and let go of the things in their life holding them back. Starting during the day, the story transitions into nightfall as they move further in the direction of their chosen path.

            Addressing the reader, the poem encourages them to be put into the shoes of the person in the poem. Going from day to night shows the progression of the decision they are making to remove the bad parts of their life to continue living without them.

            The poem ends on the note that they realize that they must take care of themselves first and foremost. Taking advice from others was not working, and the only way to move forward is to stop giving in to requests from others to fix their lives. An important story is being told here in a small amount of words.

            Running through the poem is a theme of darkness. This is seen with word choices such as ‘bad advice,’ ‘melancholy,’ etc. These are not words chosen to be light and fun. They show how weighed down the person is by those around them and that the feelings they are having are not great.

            While the entire poem is a metaphor for life being a journey and the end is positive, even the language of “save the only life that you could,” indicates a darkness in the world around them. Are everyone’s lives in danger? These metaphors can be applied to life now amid a pandemic with uncertainty at every turn. The perspective one may have had probably changed drastically as the world did.

            Instead of being completely general, this poem also focuses on one individual person, and the reader can put themselves in their shoes. The person is struggling with a relatable issue that many people face, which is bad relationships and memories. At the risk of sounding hokey, the theme of this poem is a journey.

            Mary Oliver’s poems usually focus on the world of nature and spirituality. While this one addresses the reader and brings attention to the human component, she still incorporates nature with the wind and other symbolism.       

            Upon reading the first lines, you know this is going to be good. Just like you, the person being written about knows it is time to make changes. A turning point is here, and a new path will be formed. The people around them are giving them advice that just won’t do, and they need to break free and move forward.

            The house mentioned in line 6 symbolizes the person in question trembling beneath the words of others telling them what to do, and how that advice isn’t necessarily good. The relationships people have can be draining at times, and the weight of others asking for help with their own lives can deter people from working on themselves. The voices in the poem are yelling “Mend my life!” which is a common request in other words from others. When you care about someone, it can be difficult to deny them the emotional energy they demand.

            The line “you knew what you had to do,” cements that they know it is time to leave all of the badness behind and take control of their own life again. Cutting ties and leaving those behind who aren’t good for you is an incredibly hard task. Once the decision is made, sticking with it is the part that people struggle with the most. Another interpretation here is letting go not of people and relationships, but of a bad past memory that has been holding you back.

            One of the hardest things to do in relationships of any kind is to say the dreaded word, “no.” The person in this poem is making the tough decision to deny the requests of those around them, and push the bad advice back. The wind mentioned in line 14 symbolizes the pressure and stress caused by the nagging words of others that is holding them back. Working to get through it, they escape the grips to continue working to get rid of the weight.

            The symbolism continues with the stars breaking through the clouds, where the person is reaching clarity. By the end of the poem, it is nightfall, symbolizing the change getting further away from the issues they are escaping. The road is full of branches and stones that they are leaving behind, as well. The stones and branches could symbolize the people and memories they are trying to forget, left behind on the road to blow away and not return. When letting go of people and memories, getting rid of physical memories is one of the first steps in release.

            As the cloud disappear and clarity is reached, they are seeing their new life in front of them. The night and day symbolism is a clear way to distinguish the progression in their choices. Without being drowned out by the sound of other voices, they are able to hear their own voice and think. The line “as you left their voice behind, the stars began to burn,” symbolizes clarity coming as they stop listening to the voices.

            While it may not be actual physical distance between them and the memories, the visual of a road leading away from them shows the growth and change. It isn’t always possible to get that physical distance, but the imagery is something you can see in your head to help you move on. Latching onto the past can hinder any forward movement, so letting go in some regard will help, and this poem shows that.

            The ending line of being determined to do the only thing that you could do, is save the only life that you could, implying their own life. This is a very important moment as the poem ends. They have finished their realization period and have gotten to the point of leaving it behind to start new.

            The reader is left to hope they work on themselves and reach the goals they have set. It is open for interpretation how they do this, but the why is made clear throughout. The story can be applied to any aspect of life, and be inspiration for someone to do the same.

Structure/Rhyme Scheme

            ‘The Journey’ is a free verse poem that does not have your standard rhyme scheme. While rhyming does occur in some lines, it isn’t consistent throughout. One standout rhyme is the first line: “One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voice around you,” do and you rhyme, but again it is not consistent in the entire poem. Being written with the word “you,” addresses the reader to help them read the poem as it it’s about themselves.

            As far as time goes, the poem follows the line of one day, but a day after much consideration. Earlier the term ‘turning point’ was used, and that’s where this poem begins. The person has been thinking about letting go for a while, and it is finally time. The reader is joining them right as they have made the final decision and it is time for them to move on with their life. Where were they before? The reader doesn’t have to know. This decision is so relatable in so many ways.

            The structure and “you” approach make this a relatable poem and easy to read. The words used are simple and get the point across without being too wordy. The quotation of “mend my life!” is something everyone has heard at least once in some form. The writing makes this an accessible poem for those who may find the entire world of poetry to be daunting.

            Overall, ‘The Journey’ is a poem that almost anyone can relate to. Who hasn’t been in a position where they had to cut someone out, or knew it was time to change their lifestyle? There are no specifics tied to the reasons why this person is choosing to take the journey, so the reader can fill in the blanks with people or situations from their own lives.

            For the world’s current timeline, many people are choosing to make changes in their life. The time of isolation experienced globally was a time for introspect. This poem does an excellent job of encompassing that feeling of wanting to decide, getting to the point where you know it’s the right one, and needing to do it at that exact moment. If you wait too long, you may not follow through, and that’s why you must act at that second.

            Poetry is a place to seek inspiration and enjoyment. A poem like this can inspire you to think about yourself and what you have going on in your life. Through symbolism and interpretation, the reader can take the good out of the poem to apply to their own situation. That makes it a great poem.

            A simple takeaway from this poem is to make time for yourself. It is perfectly fine to say no to someone, and if something isn’t good for you, get it out of your life.  Now is as good a time as any to make changes to redirect the course of your life. Whether that be leaving memories behind, or people that just aren’t good for you.

            Bringing yourself to the turning point is a journey in itself, and once you get there crossing the bridge is even harder. Hopefully this poem inspires you to pinpoint what it is holding you back, and let it go. Life is all about journeys and changes, and the important part is coming to terms with this.           

            To sum it up, there’s nothing like a poem involving the reader to get your mind moving. Whether this poem encourages you to make major life changes, or think about things a little differently, it has something for everyone.

• Poet Mary Oliver's Papers, Fund for New Event Series Gifted to Library
• U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón to Launch Signature Project “You Are Here”
• Library and Artists Salute Elton John and Bernie Taupin with Gershwin Prize
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Library, Poet Laureate to Launch Mary Oliver Memorial Event in National Poetry Month

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Library, Poet Laureate to Launch Mary Oliver Memorial Event in National Poetry Month Mary Oliver Papers, Fund for New Event Series Recently Gifted to Library  

The extensive papers of Mary Oliver, one of America’s most acclaimed and widely read poets, are now part of the Library of Congress due to the generosity of Bill and Amalie Reichblum. The Reichblums, who are the executors of Oliver’s estate and members of the Library’s James Madison Council, have also created the Mary Oliver Memorial Event Fund for Emerging Poets.

The fund establishes a new annual memorial event at the Library, honoring Oliver’s generosity as an artist who mentored young poets. The Reichblums gifted the Mary Oliver Papers manuscript collection to the Library in December 2023.

On April 4, U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón will return to the Library of Congress to kick off the inaugural Mary Oliver Memorial Event as well as celebrate the launch of Limón’s signature project, “You Are Here.” 

“Amalie and I are so delighted that Mary Oliver’s archives will now be in the care of the Library of Congress and reside alongside her touchstones Walt Whitman, Edna St. Vincent Millay, and so many other writers and artists who have defined the possibilities of the American imagination,” said Bill Reichblum. “Mary Oliver’s commitment to her work was matched by her willingness to help emerging poets throughout her life. The Fund continues Mary Oliver’s remarkable legacy.”

The April 4 event will feature Limón with Molly McCully Brown, Jake Skeets, Analicia Sotelo and Paul Tran — emerging poets featured in Limón’s new anthology, “You Are Here: Poetry in the Natural World.” A small advance sampling of received Mary Oliver Papers collection materials will be shown in a display prior to the event.

Part of the Library’s Live! at the Library series, the event will take place in the Coolidge Auditorium at 7 p.m. ET.  Register for free tickets here.

The new Mary Oliver Papers collection at the Library of Congress is rich with primary documentation, including correspondence, writings, notebooks, interviews and other materials related to Oliver’s personal life and her long career as a poet, essayist, critic and teacher. Many of the personal photos, letters to publishers and friends and poetry and prose writings reflect Oliver’s devoted love of the sea, woods, flora and fauna, her dogs and her introspective meditations on the natural world.

The full collection is currently being archivally processed and will become available to researchers through the Manuscript Division later this year.

Mary Oliver (1935-2019) was the recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for “American Primitive” in 1984 and of the National Book Award for “New and Selected Poems” in 1992. She began writing poetry as a teenager and published her first book of poems, “No Voyage, and Other Poems,” when she was 28. It was followed by a succession of bestselling poetry and essay collections published across her lifetime and beloved by an international readership. Oliver was committed to environmental sustainability. She found inspiration for her work and her spirituality in the poetry and meditations upon nature of Emerson, Whitman, Shelley, Keats, Millay and Rumi, and through her frequent forays into woodlands and along the seashore of Cape Cod.

The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States — and extensive materials from around the world — both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services and other programs and plan a visit at  loc.gov ; access the official site for U.S. federal legislative information at  congress.gov ; and register creative works of authorship at  copyright.gov .

Media Contact: Brett Zongker, [email protected]  

PR 24-032 04/01/2024 ISSN 0731-3527

Mary Lou Retton Celebrates Easter Without Oxygen Tube 6 Months After Hospitalization

Mary lou retton’s daughters said goodbye to her during life-threatening hospitalization, diddy's longtime collaborator opens up about house raids, says mogul is devastated, arnold schwarzenegger embarrasses travis kelce over past dwayne johnson comments, why mama june's husband thinks she’ll ‘ruin’ their marriage, nicole richie feels 'beside myself' with excitement over sister sofia's pregnancy (exclusive), 'fallout': walton goggins on making the ghoul 'sexy' (exclusive), kirsten dunst says she'd do another 'bring it on' movie under one condition (exclusive), nick cannon and abby de la rosa reveal son zillion was diagnosed with autism, inside tori spelling and dean mcdermott's amicable divorce (source), diddy's ex shares security footage from beverly hills house raid, travis kelce on bringing back kelce jam and bonding with taylor swift over music (exclusive), ‘yellowstone' star's nephew named suspect in alleged domestic violence incident after going missing, travis kelce ‘dabbling’ in entertainment for possible post-nfl career (exclusive), colin farrell reacts to the rise of irish actors in hollywood (exclusive), michael douglas breaks down his transformation into benjamin franklin (exclusive), watch johnny depp star as king louis xv in 'jeanne du barry' official trailer, taylor swift makes her debut on forbes’ billionaire list, christina applegate hasn't showered in weeks because of ms flare-up, angie harmon's dog shot by delivery driver: lawyer explains next steps, matthew lawrence surprises chili with mid-workout kiss, paris hilton and husband carter reum respond to concern over daughter's absence on social media, mary lou retton was hospitalized in october after contracting a rare form of pneumonia..

Mary Lou Retton celebrated Easter and a milestone in her health journey!

On Sunday, the Olympic champion's daughter, Shayla Kelley, shared photos from their holiday celebration. 

"H🐰ppy Easter ! 🐣 Missing @emmajeankelley !!!," Shayla wrote. In the photo, Retton stands next to Shayla and her other daughters, McKenna and and Skyla as they pose on the porch.

Noticeably absent from the picture is Retton's oxygen tank, which has offered her breathing support following her battle with a rare form of pneumonia that left her hospitalized . 

In October, Retton's daughters reported that she was "fighting for her life" in the ICU as she battled a rare form of pneumonia. During her weeks in the hospital, Retton's daughters kept their followers updated on her progress and a "very scary setback."

Weeks after the hospitalization, Retton broke her silence , sharing that she was recovering at home and thanking fans, ahead of her long road to recovery.

Last month, Retton took to Instagram and shared a video of her dog, catching her breath following a walk. Briefly updating her fans, the former Dancing With the Stars contestant captioned the video, " #tryingtogetbackinshape ."

In the clip, Retton sits on the couch with the camera facing her dog as she asks her if she would like to go for another walk. 

"She's still breathing heavy from the last one," Retton says. "And I'm the little lady in my neighborhood that has a portable oxygen machine walking a big fat golden retriever who I love, and her name is Honey," she adds with laughter.

In January, Retton spoke for the first time about her life-threatening battle and the road to recovery. The gymnastics icon appeared alongside her daughter, Shayla, and with the support of her oxygen tank as she spoke to Today 's Hoda Kotb .

After making it home and celebrating Christmas with her family, Retton spoke about her optimism amid her healing.

"When you face death in the eyes, I have so much to look forward to, I'm a fighter and I'm not going to give up," she told Kotb. "I have no idea what the future holds for me, I don't know if I'm going to have lasting issues with my lungs, they don't know. I wish I had answers, but I will never give up, it's not in me."

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‘mary & george’ star tony curran calls raunchy show ‘liberating’: ‘i got into acting to take my clothes off’.

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He just can’t wait to be King. 

Scottish actor Tony Curran co-stars as King James I in the raunchy period drama miniseries “Mary & George,” also starring Julianne Moore . 

“I was saying to my wife, some of the dialogue that I have, I would open a script and go, ‘My god, it’s such a delight to say some of these lines,’” Curran, 54 (“Ray Donovan,” “The Flash”) told The Post. 

“Some of the lines were so fruity, so cutting, so naughty — and, so poignant and tender. The script was full of golden nuggets of dialogue that were fascinating to play.”

Created by D.C. Moore (“Killing Eve,”) and premiering April 5 on Starz (9 p.m.), “Mary & George” is set in the 1600s. Loosely based on a true story, it follows the ruthless and ambitious Mary Villiers (Moore), a former servant who pushes her son, George (Nicholas Galitzine, “Red, White & Royal Blue” ), to seduce James — who prefers the company of men — so both mother and son can rise from humble origins and become power players in the English court. 

“There was lots that I found fascinating [researching the real King James I], he was one of the first advocates of anti-smoking ,” said Curran.

“He called it ‘harmful to the lungs, stinking to the nose.’ He wrote a paper on it; the first anti-smoking paper. And then he found out the economic and fiscal possibilities of tobacco, and that changed his mind!” 

The show has a slew of salacious scenes. And, while some actors such as Penn Badgley have spoken out about their hesitancy to take roles requiring sex and nudity, Curran had no such qualms. 

“I guess if you don’t enjoy doing scenes like this, then why become an actor? That’s the only reason I got into acting — to take my clothes off,” he joked. 

“I find it’s a part of the story; the lascivious, sexual nature of it,” he said. “I think all these sensual, sexual elements are a currency for these characters, and part of their journey, intimacy, tenderness, and ultimately love. Certainly with King James and George. When I spoke to [director Oliver Hermanus] before we started shooting, I knew exactly what I was getting myself in for. It wasn’t without a feeling of, ‘This is quite daunting. This will be interesting, getting in a room with six other men, completely naked, and having a Caravaggio orgy moment.'”

He added, “But once you get in the positions you’ve already talked about, you’ve discussed it with the intimacy coordinator, the other actors, the director — I was in King James’ head. You’re just happy to go along with it, and bring the character to life.”

In the show, Mary and George don’t immediately succeed at getting the King’s attention. He has a bevy of other male lovers to carry on with, so the pair have to figure out how to turn the royal’s eyes toward George. 

“Not that I’m anything like Magic Mike , but I do work out a lot and try to keep fit,” said Curran. 

“But because of the era, I wouldn’t imagine he’d be lifting weights. So I stopped working out while I was doing the show, because I didn’t want to look as if I was pumping iron in the Jacobean era. It’s quite liberating, getting involved in those kinds of scenes. It’s something you don’t do every day.”

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