In the Wild Light

Using Cash’s closing poem and his recollection of his Papaw introducing him to the wonder of nature, particularly the memory on the front porch in Papaw’s rocker, write an explication of the book’s title. In what ways does the book play with variations on the preposition “in” when it comes to engaging the world?

In the Wild Light tells the story of a boy who comes to discover his potential to be a poet. How does the novel define the power, pain, and consolation of being an artist? Draw examples from Dr. Atkins’s advice, the poetry of Adélia Prado and Mary Oliver, and Cash’s interactions with his grandfather to support your analysis.

The theme of accepting death lies at the emotional core of the novel. Compare Cash’s discovery of his mother to his vigil over Papaw at the hospital and assess how Cash comes to terms with the reality of death. How does his perception of nature help him through his grief?