Nature’s Sigh Wordsworth’s ‘The World is Too Much with Us’

The World is Too Much with Us is a sonnet by William Wordsworth, written in the early 19th century.

It reflects the poet’s discontent with the societal shift towards materialism and the resulting disconnection from nature.

Wordsworth’s Frustration

In the poem, Wordsworth expresses his frustration with people who, in pursuit of wealth and possessions, have lost touch with the natural world.

The opening line of the poem “The world is too much with us late and soon,” suggests the overwhelming presence of the material world in our lives.

Harmony Lost

He longs for a deeper connection with nature, lamenting that we are “out of tune” with the harmonious and spiritual aspects of the natural world.

Wordsworth mentions classical deities like Proteus and Triton, implying that even these powerful entities are ignored in the modern pursuit of material gain.

Themes

Wordsworth laments the disconnect between humanity and nature. The poem also expresses a deep yearning for a more profound, spiritual connection with nature.

Wordsworth feels that the pursuit of material gain has led to a loss of spiritual and emotional fulfillment.

Wordsworth‘s main point

The poem conveys his longing for a more meaningful and spiritual relationship with the natural world.

He suggests that this disconnection is detrimental to the human spirit and that a return to a harmonious coexistence with nature is essential for a richer and more fulfilling life.

References

Pacheco An & Johnson Da (eds) 2010, 'The Renaissance and Long Eighteenth Century', London.