Wordsworth and Housman employ contrasting techniques to convey their perceptions of nature. Wordsworth utilizes identification and comparison to suggest a connection between the natural world and the human mind. On the other hand, Housman adopts a different approach in his poem “Loveliest of Trees”. Wordsworth believes that nature serves as both a teacher and a nurturer in man’s relationship with the environment. In his work “Daffodils,” the speaker fondly reminisces about a past encounter with a multitude of swaying daffodils, gradually recognizing their true beauty. Wordsworth’s focus on nature is demonstrated through his act of strolling and keen observation of the natural world.
On Easter Sunday, A.E Housman takes a ride through the woods and marvels at a cherry tree adorned with white blossoms. Housman’s focus is on appreciating the year-round beauty of nature, particularly in the form of the “Loveliest of Trees”. Both poets emphasize the importance of appreciating simple things, such as nature. Despite their differences, A.E. Housman and William Wordsworth both recognize the significance of nature’s beauty. Housman’s theme serves as a reminder to seize the moment and make the most of one’s limited time, echoing the sentiment of “do it now”.
In this text, Housman encourages readers to appreciate the blossoming trees and seize the opportunity to enjoy their beauty. He reflects on the passage of time and realizes that he only has fifty more years to appreciate nature. The poet urges readers to make the most of present opportunities and not take nature for granted, as it is a gift from God. In “Daffodils,” Housman allows readers to explore and connect with nature using their imagination. Both poems reflect on understanding oneself and finding a place in the universe through nature.
The speaker has a strong connection to nature, perceiving life and using personification. They describe seeing “ten thousand” things in a lively dance, capturing the essence of nature’s beauty. Through reflection and imagination, the speaker is able to recreate the feeling of being surrounded by nature through memories. By comparing themselves to a lonely cloud, they imply a sense of floating and the ability to take in new experiences. Although the speaker purposefully wanders to experience nature, they reflect on it later. These two themes highlight the imaginative process and the ability to view the world with childlike wonder. The tone and diction in “Loveliest of Trees” convey admiration.
The text explores the contrasting emotions of desperation and admiration in relation to the changing seasons of spring and winter. The speaker reflects on the passing of time, using the metaphor of seventy springs being reduced to fifty more. The emphasis is on the fleeting nature of life. The speaker appreciates the beauty of cherry trees by closely observing them. In comparison, Wordsworth’s poem “Daffodils” portrays a joyful tone and shows a similar choice of words. Wordsworth also admires the beauty of daffodils and acknowledges his own solitude while walking in the forest. The use of nostalgia highlights the profound sense of wonder that the sight of daffodils evoked in the past.
The poem “Daffodils” employs a series of visualizations, as expressed by the line, “When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils” (Line 3-4). The daffodils brought the speaker immense joy and served as a remedy for sadness. The poem also utilizes words like “sprightly” and “glee” to create a cheerful atmosphere. Similarly, the speaker in “Loveliest of Trees” shares the same enthusiasm for the beauty of nature. In this poem, Wordsworth employs figurative language, such as alliteration with the phrase “Woodland ride” (3). The woodland serves as a place for reflection and appreciation of life and its continuous offerings of exquisite nature. Additionally, Wordsworth describes the daffodils as “wearing white” (Line 4) in his poem.
The trees themselves are standing adorned in white, symbolizing a celebration associated with the woodland during Eastertide. The poet draws a comparison between the trees and his own life. This comparison is expressed through a simile in “Daffodils”, where the poet starts to demonstrate great creativity. The first line states, “I wandered lonely as a cloud.” This simile compares the poet to a cloud, allowing him to observe nature from a detached perspective. This comparison to the cloud is akin to floating freely in darkness, while simultaneously experiencing an ethereal sensation. The use of imagery is evident when the poet describes “A host of golden daffodils; beside the lake, beneath the trees, fluttering and dancing in the breeze” (Lines 5-6).
The speaker’s attention is drawn to the beauty of the “Daffodils” as they gently sway in the breeze. In “Loveliest of trees” by Housman, the conclusion shifts to appreciating the beauty of the world while still being alive. This creates an attitude and mood where discomfort arises in an unusual way, even when faced with beauty.
The poem expresses the understanding that life is temporary and death is inevitable. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment by appreciating the cherry tree during winter and observing the snow clinging to its branches in spring. The poet describes the beauty of riding through the woods after Easter Sunday, when the white blossoms are in full bloom. The reality of time passing is highlighted as the poet realizes he is twenty years old and estimates that he has around fifty years left. Both poems convey a sense of harmony between mankind and nature.
Despite their diverse methods, the poets shared a common goal of expressing the joyful bond between nature and humanity. They portrayed nature in different ways, but ultimately uncovered a pathway to wholeheartedly embrace the present moment and discover satisfaction in life. Even during difficult periods, we can always find comfort in the natural world, enabling us to contemplate the beauty of existence itself.
Witnessing the magnificence of trees, flowers, and the rhythmic motion of waves brings about a feeling of renewal and joy. It serves as a gentle reminder that nature is truly a valuable gift. Observing the natural world urges us to momentarily step away from our constant pursuit of material possessions and fully immerse ourselves in its beauty. Both poets acknowledged nature’s power to bring back inner peace and revitalize the soul. During moments of sadness or extreme stress, they encouraged finding comfort in the embrace of nature.
Nature has the power to bring comfort to a worried mind, bringing a feeling of calmness and reminding you that you are never alone. It inspires you to appreciate the incredible things in the natural world. As long as we have life, health, strength, and the ability to see, nature will always be with us. A.E. Housman and William Wordsworth both had a deep understanding and appreciation for how nature enriches our lives.
