The collection captures the intersection of human consciousness with the natural world, often centering on the transience of existence. Merwin presents a series of observations that function as meditations on time, memory, and the environment. The protagonist—often a detached, observant speaker—navigates landscapes that shift between the physical and the metaphysical. These poems utilize a distinct lack of punctuation and a fluid, enjambed structure to mirror the instability of the subjects being explored. The narrative framework is primarily lyrical, relying on imagery rather than linear progression to convey the speaker's internal state.

Readers and critics frequently note the evolution of Merwin's style from formal precision to a more open, breath-based structure. Discussion often centers on his ability to render the natural world with both intimacy and a sense of profound distance. Many highlight the meditative quality of the poems, which encourages slow, deliberate reading rather than rapid consumption. The collection is often cited for its thematic consistency regarding environmental stewardship and the limitations of human perception. Readers appreciate how the work balances technical mastery with a deep, quiet emotional resonance that persists long after the final page.