The fertility cycle is a cycle entirely of living creatures passing again and again through birth, growth, maturity, death, and decay.

In this quote, Wendell Berry, a renowned American poet, farmer, and environmentalist, reflects on the fertility cycle as a fundamental and continuous process of life. He describes it as a cycle involving birth, growth, maturity, death, and decay, which all living creatures undergo. The cycle is not just a series of events but a repetitive, natural rhythm that governs the lives of all organisms. Through this lens, Berry emphasizes the interconnectedness of life and death as essential elements of the ongoing cycle of nature.

Berry's words highlight the idea that the fertility cycle is not isolated but part of a broader, ever-turning cycle in the natural world. The idea of decay following death is an important aspect of this cycle, showing how even in death, life continues in another form. This recognition of decay is not something to be feared, but rather accepted as an important stage in the renewal and continuity of life, where each phase serves a purpose in the grand scheme of the ecosystem.

The quote also speaks to Berry's broader themes of sustainability, agriculture, and the cycles of nature. He was deeply concerned with the human impact on the environment and the importance of living in harmony with natural processes. By acknowledging the fertility cycle in its entirety, Berry reminds us of the transience of life and the importance of embracing all stages of existence, including death and decay, as integral to the health and balance of the ecosystem.

Originating from Wendell Berry, a writer and farmer known for his advocacy of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation, this quote reflects his belief in the cyclical nature of life and the need for humans to respect and understand these cycles. Berry’s work often calls for a deeper connection to the land and an appreciation of the interconnectedness of all living things, making this quote a part of his broader philosophy of environmental stewardship.