Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part III. - I - I Saw The Figure Of A Lovely Maid

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
I saw the figure of a lovely Maid Seated alone beneath a shady bower, Her posture was a gift of kindling power, Her face was radiant with a smile displayed In angel grace. Her robe was neatly made, And folded so as not to show a flower; But oh! how deep within the soul was laid The passion of her faith—so gentle, fair, So soft, so calm, that every wild desire Gave way to holy love, and in her eye A light that seemed to bless the summer air. Then did the earth grow tranquil, and the sky Looked down upon her as with fond respect, And every flower did seem to share her love.
Written: 1822-01-01

Share & Analyze This Poem

Spread the beauty of poetry or dive deeper into analysis

Analyze This Poem

Discover the literary devices, structure, and deeper meaning

Copy to Clipboard

Save this poem for personal use or sharing offline

Share the Love of Poetry
More Poems
More Sonnets
Daily Poem

Poem Details

Date Written: 1822-01-01
Date Published: 1822-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Ecclesiastical Sonnets, Reflection, Maiden, Faith, Love
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.Wordsworth
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A sonnet from Part III of the Ecclesiastical Sonnets series where Wordsworth reflects on the vision of a lovely maiden. The poem describes her as a figure of grace and faith, whose presence brings tranquility and inspires holy love, suggesting a deep spiritual connection with nature and the divine.

Understanding the Sonnet

The sonnet is one of the most enduring and celebrated forms of poetry, known for its strict structure and profound themes. With a history spanning centuries, sonnets have been used to explore love, beauty, politics, and mortality, all within the confines of just 14 lines.

Sonnets are characterized by their precise form and rhyme scheme, which vary depending on the type of sonnet. Here’s a closer look:

  • Shakespearean (English) Sonnet: Composed of three quatrains followed by a final couplet, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This form often builds a complex argument or narrative, culminating in a powerful closing statement.
  • Petrarchan (Italian) Sonnet: Divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a typical rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various patterns in the sestet such as CDECDE or CDCDCD. The octave usually presents a problem, with the sestet providing a resolution.
  • Meter: Sonnets are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, which gives the poem a rhythmic and melodic quality that enhances its emotional impact.

The sonnet’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to condense complex emotions and ideas into a small but potent package, making it a favorite form for poets seeking to explore profound themes with precision and elegance.