Ecology in Literature: A Study of Niyi Osundare’s Eye of the Earth

Abstract

The devastating state of the entire human environment has for sometimes now become a cause for a global concern and attention. Scientists, environmentalist as well as concerned stakeholders all over the world have consistently warned of the imminent danger inherent in the depleting eco- system. Literary experts in the Nigerian society, especially poets, have also joined their counterparts to lament this menace. They paint the picture of the Nigerian environment as that which has been seriously and dangerously dealt with by human activities. Niyi Osundare champions this in his collection of poems Eye of the Earth. pointing out the degeneration level and status of the Nigerian environment. From here, the study takes  a critical stance in analyzing Osundare’s works. Through a combination of the science of ecology and the art of literature, using eco criticism as its main discourse tool, the study embarks on a critical analysis of its primary text (Eye of the Earth), as well as the sociological, and  formalistic theoretical frameworks, which the study employs as supporting theoretical frameworks and tools. The study espouses the gross damage done to the environment through an interplay of literary imagery and subject matter, through which the extent of these menace was made vivid.  The study finds out that the environment and its habitat has been endangered by human activities, and that as long as these menace continues, that not only the ecosystem, but human lives will be put to a greater risk of destruction. The study is of the view that the environment and its eco system has been grossly mismanaged and suggests the following actions as rehabilitating efforts towards reinstating the ecosystem in its rightful status and shape. Every human being has conscience and should apply this in all his dealings. Human beings should be conscientized on the negative effects of damage and harm to our nascent environment. Laws should be enacted against environmental degradation. Government should constitute and institute necessary task force and stakeholders to enforce laws against offenders.

Keywords: Ecology, literature, eco-system, rehabilitation and national development