Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part II. - VII - Continued

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
And what if one, through grove or flowery mead, Indulging thus at will, should bear away A murmur of the distant surge, to feed Its fervours in the pensive human heart Where none but ruthless spectres of dismay Are known to intrude? Unhappy lot! but here, Gracious and kind, the spirit of the woods Will steal the bitterness from out the tear. Then such a one, by visions fair inspired, Shall seek the Priest, whose solitary bower In unobserved seclusion, sacred made By much communion with his own pure thoughts, Shall lay the secrets of his soul on earth, For pardon asked and meek forgiveness given.
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, Contemplation, Forgiveness, Nature
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.Wordsworth
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A sonnet from Part II of the Ecclesiastical Sonnets series where Wordsworth continues to explore the theme of spiritual contemplation. The poem describes how the beauty of nature can soothe a troubled heart, leading the soul to seek forgiveness and redemption through the guidance of a priest in solitude.

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.