Lines Written in Early Spring (William Wordsworth)

This section provides analysis for the poem “ Lines Written in Early Spring” by William Wordsworth. "Lines Written in Early Spring" is a Romantic poem by William Wordsworth, reflecting on the beauty of nature and contrasting it with the destructive influence of mankind. Wordsworth draws a sharp divide between the harmony found in nature and the disharmony created by human actions. The poem expresses deep feelings of sorrow and regret for "what man has made of man," showcasing Wordsworth's belief in the interconnectedness of the natural world and human life. Below you can read the poem, followed by detailed analysis.

Lines Written in Early Spring by William Wordsworth

I heard a thousand blended notes, 
While in a grove I sate reclined, 
In that sweet mood when pleasant thoughts 
Bring sad thoughts to the mind. 

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. 

Through primrose tufts, in that green bower, 
The periwinkle trailed its wreaths; 
And ’tis my faith that every flower 
Enjoys the air it breathes. 

The birds around me hopped and played, 
Their thoughts I cannot measure:— 
But the least motion which they made 
It seemed a thrill of pleasure. 

The budding twigs spread out their fan, 
To catch the breezy air; 
And I must think, do all I can, 
That there was pleasure there. 

If this belief from heaven be sent, 
If such be Nature’s holy plan, 
Have I not reason to lament 
What man has made of man?

Analysis of the Poem

Themes:

Nature's Beauty and Joy: Wordsworth celebrates the beauty, peace, and harmony of nature throughout the poem. The speaker finds pleasure in observing natural elements like flowers, birds, and trees, which seem to experience joy just by existing. Nature is depicted as pure and unspoiled, acting according to "heaven's" design, which contrasts with human corruption.

Key Quotations:

"To her fair works did Nature link / The human soul that through me ran"

"And 'tis my faith that every flower / Enjoys the air it breathes"

"It seemed a thrill of pleasure"

Human Suffering and Corruption: The speaker is grieved by "what man has made of man," referring to human violence, social injustices, and the way industrialisation has distanced humanity from nature. Wordsworth criticises the impact of human progress on both society and the environment, suggesting a loss of innocence and unity.

Key Quotations:

"What man has made of man"

"And much it grieved my heart to think"

Contrasts Between Nature and Humanity: Wordsworth contrasts the beauty of the natural world with the ugliness of human actions. While nature thrives in harmony, humans seem to act in ways that bring about destruction, causing the speaker to lament the state of mankind. The poem suggests that humans have lost their connection to nature, resulting in spiritual and moral decay.

Key Quotations:

"In that sweet mood when pleasant thoughts / Bring sad thoughts to the mind"

"If such be Nature’s holy plan, / Have I not reason to lament"

Tone and Mood:

Tone: The tone of the poem is meditative and reflective, with an underlying sense of melancholy. Wordsworth appreciates the beauty of nature, but this appreciation is coupled with sorrow and grief for the failings of humanity.

Mood: The mood shifts between joy, as the speaker observes the peace of nature, and sadness, as he reflects on human cruelty and loss. The poem evokes a sense of both tranquillity and regret.

Structure and Form:

The poem consists of six quatrains (four-line stanzas), with an alternating rhyme scheme (ABAB). This regular structure reflects the harmony and balance found in nature, which contrasts with the discord implied in human actions.

First-person narrative: The speaker reflects personally on his observations, lending the poem a contemplative and intimate tone. It feels as though the speaker is in quiet conversation with himself as he tries to reconcile the beauty of nature with the pain caused by mankind.

Poetic Devices and Techniques:

Personification: Wordsworth gives human qualities to elements of nature, such as flowers and birds. This helps to create a sense of unity between humans and the natural world, emphasising the contrast with the way humans treat each other.

Example:

"The periwinkle trailed its wreaths"

"The budding twigs spread out their fan"

Contrast: The contrast between nature and humanity is a central feature of the poem. Nature is peaceful and joyful, while humanity is linked with grief and corruption.

Example:

"And much it grieved my heart to think / What man has made of man"

Repetition: The phrase "What man has made of man" is repeated to emphasise Wordsworth's distress over human actions. The repetition underscores the idea that the negative impact of human behaviour is inescapable.

Imagery: Wordsworth uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of the natural world, appealing to the senses and creating a serene and idyllic atmosphere. The flowers, birds, and trees all contribute to a feeling of tranquillity.

Religious References: Wordsworth suggests that nature operates according to a "holy plan," a divine order, and implies that human beings have strayed from this ideal.

Example:

"If this belief from heaven be sent"

Context:

Romanticism: Wordsworth was a key figure in the Romantic movement, which emphasised the beauty of nature, the power of human emotion, and a return to simpler, more natural ways of living. Romantic poets often explored the relationship between humans and nature, believing that nature had a healing and spiritual quality.

Industrial Revolution: The poem was written in the late 18th century, during the Industrial Revolution. This period saw significant technological advances but also led to environmental damage, the growth of cities, and increased social inequality. Wordsworth's reference to "what man has made of man" can be seen as a critique of industrialisation and its effects on society and the environment.

Key Messages:

Wordsworth suggests that nature is a source of joy and harmony, and humans should aspire to live in accordance with it.

He criticises human behaviour, especially the ways in which humans harm each other and the natural world.

The poem invites readers to reflect on their relationship with nature and consider the consequences of human progress.

"Lines Written in Early Spring" is a thoughtful meditation on the beauty of nature and the sorrowful reality of human behaviour. Wordsworth uses the contrast between the natural world and humanity to explore themes of joy, sorrow, and disillusionment, ultimately suggesting that humankind has strayed far from the harmonious existence that nature exemplifies.

You can find analysis of all the AQA Worlds and Lives Anthology Poems here.