The poem uses the metaphor of a gardener to illustrate the importance of working with nature, not against it. The speaker is a gardener who tends a plot of land, but he recognizes he is ultimately subject to the forces of nature. He understands that he can't force things to grow. He must nurture the seeds, cultivate the soil, and be patient, knowing that ultimately, the success of his garden depends on the sun, the rain, and the natural processes beyond his control.
The poem suggests a broader meaning:
* Life is like a garden: We may have plans and aspirations, but ultimately, we must work with the challenges and opportunities life presents.
* Humility and acceptance: We are not in control of everything. We must learn to be patient and accept the things we cannot change.
* The importance of the unseen: The gardener, like us, may only see the visible parts of the work, but the true growth happens beneath the surface, unseen.
"The Gardener" is a powerful reminder that we should approach our lives with a balance of effort and acceptance, recognizing that some things are simply beyond our control.