That voice that Leopardi compares to "infinite silence," allows him to think of eternity, an ocean of thoughts in which he enjoys floundering. Thus, while Leopardi had always seen nature as something important, he experiences an awakening and growth when he understands that nature is more than just something to enjoy, but the impetus for his creativity. In addition to providing a sanctuary for him, Leopardi notes that nature acts as a barometer of humankind's relationship to the universe. When fully immersed in nature, Leopardi realizes that nature is not something for him to enjoy, but something for him to revere. When looking at the vastness of nature, he realizes how small he, and other humans, are. This can be clearly seen through the imagery regarding endlessness, eternity, and immensity used in the poem. The hedge, which does not allow Leopardi to see the entire horizon, suggests that humans' views are fallible, that we can see but part of a large picture. In addition, the...

Thus, Leopardi realizes that nature is not just a toy for humans, rather it shows the relationship between humankind and the universe, and suggests that humans are quite smaller than what surrounds them.
In sum, Leopardi's poem "L'infinito" follows in the romantic style by discussing nature. By examining nature, however, Leopardi suggests two truths -- that nature is a sanctuary in which he can think creatively, and that nature is a barometer for humans' relationship to the universe. In doing this, Leopardi makes a significant change or growth, realizing, through nature, who he is.

Works Cited

Leopardi, Count Giacomo. "L'infinito." Poemhunter.com. n.d. Poem Hunter. 17 March 2009. http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/l-infinito-english-translation/