Freneau, Philip. "On the Religion of Nature".

Summary

The speaker praises the blessed power of nature whose liberal hand gives the products of the year.

The nature also makes one incline to the path of virtue. Were all the people acknowledging the religion of nature, they would know how to create a heaven on earth.

He is looking forward the day when this happens, then there will be no persecution necessary, and only then the man's religion will be complete.

Analysis

- a poem of natural observation and at the same time contemplation of humanity

- considers flora rather than fauna, so avoids mentioning carnivorous beasts, which would not fit into the peaceful portrayal