William Wordsworth: Nature's Influence on Romantic Poetry

Introduction

William Wordsworth, born in 1770 in Wordsworth House in Cockermouth, a picturesque part of the Lake District in northwest England, is celebrated for his contributions to the Romantic era of poetry. His deep connection to nature and his belief in the divine presence within it set him apart as a prominent figure in the literary movement. This essay explores Wordsworth's life, his pantheistic beliefs, and his famous poem "Lines Written in Early Spring," highlighting the profound influence of nature on his work.

Early Life and Education

Wordsworth's journey into the world of poetry began early in his life. He attended Hawkshead Grammar School, where his innate passion for poetry was recognized and nurtured. His formative years in the Lake District, surrounded by its natural beauty, played a pivotal role in shaping his poetic sensibilities.

After completing his education, Wordsworth embarked on a transformative walking tour of France. This experience, undoubtedly influenced by the stunning landscapes he encountered, left an indelible mark on his poetic journey.

Get quality help now

KarrieWrites

Verified writer

Proficient in: Art

5 (339)

“ KarrieWrites did such a phenomenal job on this assignment! He completed it prior to its deadline and was thorough and informative. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

It was during this period that he began to develop his distinct style and perspective.

Poetic Works and Contributions

In 1793, Wordsworth published his first two poetry collections, "An Evening Walk" and "Descriptive Sketches." These early works laid the foundation for his future endeavors and showcased his budding talent. However, it is "The Prelude," his autobiographical poem, that is often regarded as his magnum opus. He commenced writing it at the age of 28 and continued to work on it throughout his life, with its publication occurring posthumously.

Wordsworth's significance in the realm of poetry lies in his role as one of the pioneering figures of the Romantic era. He firmly believed that English poetry should be rooted in emotions rather than intellect and style. His pantheistic views, which identified God with the universe, were a driving force behind his creative endeavors.

Pantheistic Beliefs

Wordsworth's pantheistic philosophy, rooted in his reverence for nature, was a central theme in his poetry. According to the Oxford dictionary, pantheism is "a doctrine which identifies God with the universe or regards the universe as a manifestation of God." Wordsworth saw nature as a direct manifestation of the divine, and this belief permeated his work.

In Wordsworth's poems, a profound and harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world is evident. He often drew inspiration directly from nature, expressing his deep admiration without limitations. His communion with nature was so intense that he would often wander along paths, immersing himself in the tranquility of the natural world while composing his poems.

"Lines Written in Early Spring"

One of Wordsworth's renowned poems, "Lines Written in Early Spring," exemplifies his pantheistic worldview. Published in 1798 as part of the collection "Lyrical Ballads," it is considered a seminal work that marked the inception of the English Romantic movement in literature.

The poem comprises six quatrains, each following an ABAB rhyme scheme and written in iambs. The title, "Lines Written in Early Spring," evokes a sense of renewal and beauty, hinting at the themes explored within.

In this poem, Wordsworth draws a parallel between the state of humanity and the state of nature. He suggests that, from the perspective of happiness, mankind and nature are intricately connected. The lines "To her fair works did Nature link / The human soul that through me ran; And much it grieved my heart to think / What man has made of man" (lines 4-8) underscore this interconnectedness, emphasizing the shared essence of the human soul and the natural world.

Wordsworth employs various literary devices, such as personification, to convey his ideas. For instance, he personifies a flower, stating, "And 'tis my faith that every flower / Enjoys the air it breathes" (lines 11-12), attributing human-like characteristics to the natural world. Similarly, in stanza 5, he personifies budding twigs, giving them the ability to spread out their fan to catch the breezy air: "The budding twigs spread out their fan, / To catch the breezy air" (lines 17-18).

Furthermore, Wordsworth describes nature as a sentient being with the capacity to plan: "If this belief from heaven be sent, / If such be Nature's holy plan" (lines 21-22). This portrayal reinforces his pantheistic belief that nature is not just a passive entity but an active force that reflects divine intent.

Interestingly, the poem takes a melancholic turn as the speaker contemplates the perfection of nature. He experiences a sense of sadness, triggered by the stark contrast between the tranquility of nature and the turmoil of human existence. The poem raises questions about mankind's role in disrupting the harmony of the natural world.

Conclusion

William Wordsworth's deep affection for nature, coupled with his pantheistic beliefs, shaped his poetic vision and left an enduring mark on English Romantic literature. "Lines Written in Early Spring" serves as a testament to his view of nature as a divine manifestation and his belief in the intrinsic connection between humanity and the natural world.

While celebrating the beauty and harmony of nature, Wordsworth also lamented the discord introduced by human actions. His poetry invites readers to contemplate the relationship between man and nature, urging us to embrace a harmonious coexistence with the natural world. In essence, Wordsworth's work serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of preserving the sanctity of nature and recognizing its role as a source of inspiration, solace, and spiritual connection.