William Christopher Handy's quote "Nature was my kindergarten" talks to the significance of nature in his life. He was likely referring to the fact that he discovered a lot of life's lessons from nature, instead of from a standard school setting. Nature offered him with a sense of wonder and expedition, and he was able to observe and learn from the natural world around him. He likely found solace in nature, and it supplied him with a sense of peace and understanding. Nature likewise taught him about the cycle of life, and how to value the charm of the world. Nature was his teacher, and he had the ability to learn from it in ways that he could not have actually gained from a traditional school setting. Nature was his kindergarten, and it provided him with the structure for his life.
"Art is not merely an imitation of the reality of nature, but in truth a metaphysical supplement to the reality of nature, placed alongside thereof for its conquest"
"Though nature be ever so generous, yet can she not make a hero alone. Fortune must contribute her part too; and till both concur, the work cannot be perfected"