Energy in Willa Cather's My Antonia and O Pioneers!: a union of landscape, personalities, and art

The primary texts for this essay are My Antonia and O Pioneers!. Using My Antonia I establish the existence of an energetic essence that quickens the land and various characters of these novels. The influence of this wild energy is manifest mainly through color and movement. I focus specifically on Antonia and Blind d'Arnault who instinctively connect with this energy and react to it in a way that brings them feelings of happiness and wholeness. Using O Pioneers! I further define the term "energy" by examining it as a natural force that activates and inspires art. Focusing mainly on Alexandra Bergson, I discuss in detail the balanced artistic relationship some characters establish with the energy as they temper its spontaneity with control and unite instinct with will. Their efforts result in vitalized art that expands the energy and reveals its renewing and life-sustaining capabilities. All the objects and individuals who share in the embodiment of this energy are part of its interminable influence. As a foundation for theme and character, this force of energy is an integral part of Cather's celebrated works.