The Speaker

The speaker is the main character in the poem. They do not provide any physical description of themselves. Furthermore, because they represent the only voice in the text, they are characterized solely through their own words and thoughts. As the title of the poem suggests, the speaker is someone who goes against the status quo, identifying and resisting what they view as pointless or destructive societal standards. In this same vein, they possess a strong voice and powerful conviction with regard to their own philosophical beliefs.

The speaker feels that the sort of academic learning brought on by the Age of Enlightenment is antithetical to real learning. They view an emphasis on study and books as fruitless. Instead, they value the acquisition of wisdom through an engagement with nature. They also possess a strong desire to pass their message on to others around them. Not content with...