Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey Poem Analysis

Nature has been a major theme for poets for centuries. However, it came an even more prominent theme in the Romantic era. Not only do the poems focus on the natural world, but also human nature. A poet who does this the most is William Wordsworth. Wordsworth’s images and metaphors mix natural scenery, religious symbolism and the images of his own rustic and nature filled childhood and other places perfectly humanity and nature.

Wordsworth’s poem “Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey” highlights the combination perfectly. The narrator starts off the poem explaining that he is returning to a beloved place after five years. Wordsworth, in simple language, is able to describe this picture so clear. The reader is able to see the “mountain-springs” (3) and the unripe fruit clade in their green hues (12-13). The poem, on the surface, is just that; a poet narrating a return. However, it is much more than that. It is about the connection between nature and the human nature to connect memories.

The narrator’s return to a beloved place in nature. He argues, several times, the importance of nature. “A worshipper of Nature, hither came / Unwearied in that service; rather say / With warmer love-oh! with far deeper zeal / Of holier love” (152-155). The importance of nature comes from this parallel between nature and religion. Wordsworth does not look to religion or God for consoling, he looks toward nature. “The anchor of my purest thoughts, the nurse, / The guide, the guardian of my heart, and soul / Of all my moral being” (109-111). Nature is important because it is, for Wordsworth, an anchor. “How often has my spirit turned to thee!” (57). Wordsworth has always looked to nature for support when most people would look to religio...

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...es’ anchor is religion. Wordsworth also is able to talk about human nature. He shows the importance of memories and the acceptance of the years that have passed. Lastly, Wordsworth ends the poem with the knowledge that he has a legacy. His sister will carry on her love and appreciation of nature. This shows the idea that humans may need the assurance that they will not be forgotten and the search to find someone who understands their own passion. This poem, overall, is really about the search for connections. Wordsworth has a connection to nature, a spiritual connection. He also needs that connection with his memories so he can remember the good things about humanity. It is also about the connection between humans and mutual passions. The poem “Tintern Abbey” is about the quest for a connection to that something, or someone, that brings you happiness in dark times.