William Wordsworth

Poet

William Wordsworth was an English poet known for his role in the Romantic movement and his profound connection to nature, particularly in works like 'The Prelude.'

Born
April 7, 1770
Died
April 23, 1850
Quotes
476
Rank
#62

About William Wordsworth

William Wordsworth — Life and Legacy

William Wordsworth, a central figure in the Romantic movement, is celebrated for his exploration of nature and human emotion. His major work, 'The Prelude,' serves as a philosophical reflection on his poetic journey and the development of his thoughts. Wordsworth's belief that poetry should be rooted in everyday experiences is evident in his famous assertion that 'poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings.' This perspective underscores his view that genuine emotion arises from a deep connection with the natural world, a theme prevalent in his poetry. Wordsworth's quotes often reveal his profound appreciation for the beauty of nature, as seen in his line 'I wandered lonely as a cloud,' which captures the essence of solitude and reflection. He challenged the prevailing norms of his time by advocating for the importance of individual emotion and the beauty of the natural landscape, positioning nature as a source of inspiration and spiritual renewal. His works encourage readers to find solace in nature and recognize its transformative power. Today, Wordsworth's insights into the human experience and his emphasis on the emotional resonance of nature continue to resonate, reminding us of the importance of introspection and our connection to the environment.

Quote collection

William Wordsworth quotes (page 1 of 24)

476 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

William Wordsworth Poet
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"Then my heart with pleasure fills And dances with the daffodils."

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"That best portion of a man's life, his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love."

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"How many undervalue the power of simplicity ! But it is the real key to the heart."

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"I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high o'er vales and hills When all at once I saw a crowd A host of golden daffodils Beside the lake beneath the trees Fluttering and dancing in the breeze."

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"Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquility."

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"With an eye made quiet by the power of harmony, and the deep power of joy, we see into the life of things."

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"Strongest minds are often those whom the noisy world hears least."

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"The flower that smells the sweetest is shy and lowly."

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"Life is divided into three terms - that which was, which is, and which will be. Let us learn from the past to profit by the present, and from the present, to live better in the future."

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"And suddenly all your troubles melt away, all your worries are gone, and it is for no reason other than the look in your partner's eyes. Yes, sometimes life and love really is that simple."

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"Through primrose tufts, in that green bower, The periwinkle trails its wreath; And 'tis my faith that every flower Enjoys the air it breathes. The birds around me hopped and played, Their thoughts I cannot measure; But the least motion which they made, It seemed a thrill of pleasure. The budding twigs spread out their fan, To catch the breezy air; And I must think, do all I can That there was pleasure there. If this belief from heaven be sent, If such be Nature's holy plan, Have I not reason to lament What man has made of man?"

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"By all means sometimes be alone; salute thyself; see what thy soul doth wear; dare to look in thy chest; and tumble up and down what thou findest there."

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"We have within ourselves Enough to fill the present day with joy, And overspread the future years with hope."

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"Suffering is permanent, obscure and dark, And shares the nature of infinity."

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"Be mild, and cleave to gentle things, thy glory and thy happiness be there."

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