Walt Disney: 'I don't like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It's just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess.'

I don't like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It's just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess.

Walt Disney once famously said, "I don't like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It's just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess." At first glance, this quote may appear to be a simple expression of personal preference. However, upon closer examination, it unveils a deeper meaning that resonates with our innate connection to the natural world. In a world where we are constantly surrounded by carefully cultivated and manicured environments, Disney's aversion to formal gardens speaks to a longing for the unstructured and untamed wonders of the wilderness.Nature has a way of captivating and inspiring us like no other. It reminds us of our own inherent wildness—a side of ourselves often suppressed in the face of societal expectations and order. Disney's preference for wild nature and his wilderness instinct reflect this recognition of our primal connection to the untamed world.In this fast-paced and highly structured modern society, there is an undeniable allure to the chaos and unpredictability of nature. It provides a respite from the rigid order we often find ourselves confined within. The wildness of nature allows us to break free from the constraints of civilization and rekindle our sense of adventure and exploration.What Disney's quote brings forth is the importance of balance in our lives. While structured gardens and orderly environments have their own merits and can bring a sense of tranquility, they can never quite compare to the untouched beauty of the natural world. By embracing the wildness within us, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities, where unexpected encounters and uncharted pathways lie ahead.Moreover, Disney's words invite us to explore a philosophical concept often sidelined in our pursuit of progress and control—the idea of embracing chaos and finding beauty in imperfection. Nature, with its unruly growth patterns, diverse ecosystems, and varied landscapes, exemplifies the very essence of this concept. It challenges our human obsession with perfection and reminds us that true beauty lies in embracing the disarray and unpredictability of life.In contrast, formal gardens represent a desire for control and conformity. While they possess their own aesthetic charm and offer a certain sense of order, they lack the organic vitality and authenticity that wild nature effortlessly exudes. Formal gardens are carefully planned and executed, conforming to predetermined shapes, patterns, and structures. They may mirror human ingenuity and creativity, but they often fall short in capturing the raw and untamed essence of the natural world.Disney's words serve as a gentle nudge to reconnect with the wilderness instinct within us, to wander off the beaten path and immerse ourselves in experiences that rekindle our sense of wonder and awe. It encourages us to let go of societal expectations, to embrace the imperfections, and to find solace and inspiration in the untamed beauty of the world around us.In conclusion, Walt Disney's quote, "I don't like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It's just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess," encapsulates the longing within all of us for the untamed. It reminds us of the profound connection we share with the natural world and invites us to rekindle our sense of adventure and embrace the chaos and imperfections that life offers. So, let us follow Disney's lead and venture into the wilderness, for in doing so, we may just find ourselves amidst the most transformative and enchanting experiences that only nature can provide.