Lines Written in Early Spring Poem Quiz

Poem Analysis

• The poem "Lines Written in Early Spring" by William Wordsworth is a reflection on the beauty of nature and its contrast with human society.

The Poet's Setting

• The poet is sitting in a grove, surrounded by nature, and is in a thoughtful mood.
• The atmosphere is peaceful, with the poet describing hearing "a thousand blended notes".

Nature's Beauty

• Nature is personified as a creative force, with the poet suggesting that it has a positive impact on the human soul.
• The periwinkle plant is used as an example of nature's beauty, with its wreaths trailing through the primrose tufts.
• The poet believes that every flower enjoys the air it breathes, implying a sense of joy and vitality in nature.

Contrasting Human Reality

• The poet is saddened by the thought of what humans have done to each other, implying a sense of disappointment and regret.
• The phrase "what man has made of man" suggests that humans have failed to live up to their potential and have instead caused harm to one another.

The Natural World vs. Human Society

• The poet observes the carefree nature of the birds, describing them as hopping and playing, and suggests that even the smallest movements bring them pleasure.
• The budding twigs are also described as spreading out their fan-like structures to catch the breezy air, implying a sense of joy and abandon.
• The poet laments the fact that humans have not been able to achieve a similar sense of harmony and happiness.

The Poet's Reflection

• The poet questions whether their belief in the beauty of nature is a message from heaven or part of a larger plan.
• The poem ends with the poet reaffirming their sadness about the state of human society, emphasizing the need for change.