Ruefle uses a theme of seasonal change in “The Hand” to signify a coming change for the student observing it. As the robin, a signal of spring and a symbol of rebirth or change, sits on an overhanging branch and ruffles its feathers as the student watches, the student absorbs its message that something new on the horizon. In the closing line, we learn what that message is: “spring is in the air” (Line 18).

Many cultures celebrate spring as freedom from the oppression and bleakness of winter, and cultural and religious holidays like Passover, Holi, Nowruz, and Easter confirm the perseverance of renewal and rebirth. With the warmer temperatures of spring come a new environment, with more sun and more active wildlife. Mating season for many birds and animals brings new life. New leaves begin to grow on trees, and new grass and flowers begin to show.

This sensation of the natural world’s cycle as a liberation echoes the experiences of the student in their stultifying classroom. We do not know exactly what is to come for the student in the coming spring, but watching the robin and daydreaming about flight helps the student escape the deadening and uninformative lesson.