From heaven, where thou wert reared
-- Speaker (Line 4)

Importance: This line is taken from the initial paragraph, where the grasshopper is introduced. It makes the unusual claim that the grasshopper was "reared," or raised, in heaven, and has fallen to earth from above (4). This seems quite strange, until the later half of the poem reveals that the grasshopper is a symbol for Charles Cotton, the beloved friend to whom the poem is dedicated. In this context, it is clear that the association with the divine serves as further praise for Cotton, who is thus attributed with, not just mortal perfection, but also heavenly grace.

The joys of earth and air are thine entire
-- Speaker (Line 5)

Importance: The speaker here presents the characteristic image of the summertime. The grasshopper is freely hopping from the ground to the sky, enjoying all the pleasures of both. This is emblematic of everything summer represents: plenty, pleasure, but also the freedom...