Skylark

Skylark portrays how human lives are deeply intertwined with the land, reinforcing nature’s ability to shape their physical survival, emotional resilience, and sense of belonging. As the prairie dries up, so does the Witting family’s sense of stability. The novel does not present nature as idyllic or overly romanticized; instead, it portrays the realistic cycles of the natural world, where both abundant and scarce seasons exist. This portrayal challenges the idea that nature can always be tamed by human will. Instead, MacLachlan underscores nature’s unpredictability and harshness. The barn fire, which is sparked by dry conditions, is a devastating reminder that nature does not always nurture—it can just as easily destroy. The drought’s impact extends beyond the physical stresses of a lack of water. It intensifies the emotional strain on the family, causing them to question whether they can endure life on the prairie. The drought parallels the tensions within the family—the children worry more about the future of their family unit than about being thirsty. Ultimately, the family must work together and remain unified in order to survive against the forces of nature.

While nature can be harsh and unforgiving, it also holds the power to restore.