Wordsworth as a Poet of Nature

Discuss William Wordsworth as a poet of nature.

William Wordsworth is the most prominent figure of the Romantic Movement in English literature. He is widely celebrated as a poet of nature. Several of his poems project the influence of Nature on him. These poems also show the influence of Nature on man. Wordsworth has written about simple people in simple language. His world of poetry deals with mystery, interest in the past, love of Nature, Interest in humanity, love for simplicity, freedom of imagination etc.

Wordsworth's affinity for nature can be traced back to his childhood experiences in the Lake District of England. This is the place where the poet develops a lifelong love for the natural environment. His poetry deals with a deep appreciation for the beauty and power of the natural world. It also reflects an understanding of spiritual and moral dimensions of this world.

Wordsworth's most celebrated poem, 'Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey,' is the best example of his poetic exploration of nature. In this poem, the poet revisits a picturesque landscape that he visited in his youth. He feels its transformative effect on his life. Here he emphasizes the restorative and uplifting qualities of nature. He highlights its ability to soothe the soul. According to the poet it is the nature that inspires imagination and provides solace from the complexities of the modern world.

'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud' is also a fantastic nature poem by William Wordsworth. It is commonly known as 'Daffodils'. This notable poem showcases Wordsworth's portrayal of nature. This poem vividly presents the beauty of daffodils. This beauty has been presented as a source of happiness and inspiration. Wordsworth's use of vivid imagery and sensory language carry the readers to the world of nature and evoke a sense of awe and wonder.

In his poetry, Wordsworth also explores the relationship between humanity and nature. He believes that nature is not only a source of aesthetic pleasure but also a spiritual and moral guide. In nature he finds a reflection of the divine. It is his firm faith that communion with the natural world can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself. This belief is evident in his collection of poems titled 'Lyrical Ballads,’. The chief aim of this collection is to present ordinary human experiences in the context of the natural world.

As a nature poet William Wordsworth rejects the formal language and grandiosity of the classical tradition. Instead he uses a more personal and accessible style. To connect the common man the poet attempts to present the description of ordinary incidents of nature. His emphasis on subjective experience is appreciated. His ability to infuse ordinary objects and scenes with profound meaning makes him a great poet.

In short, William Wordsworth's profound love for nature makes him a great nature poet. His ability to convey its beauty, spirituality, and transformative power in his poetry make him an iconic poet of nature. It is he who has left an indelible mark on the Romantic movement of English literature.