Mankind can live prosperously in harmony with Nature.

"Quite so! These bonnie towns are nestled in the bosom of a bountiful wilderness. Mr. Innes’ landscapes illustrate his belief that civilization and technology can live in harmony with Nature.

"Now this painting of mine depicts the Iowa landscape:

"I was commissioned to commemorate a grand achievement of civilization—a railroad has been built across Iowa! But I tell a very different story than Mr. Innes. What does my painting tell you about how I regard Man’s relationship with Nature?"

Nature provides unlimited bounty for mankind.
Civilization and technology threaten Nature.
Mankind can live prosperously in harmony with Nature.
Nature is dangerous and evil lurks in the wilderness.