August 1, 2021

The World Is too Much with Us
By: William Wordsworth (1807)

The world is too much with us; late and soon, Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers: Little we see in Nature that is ours; We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon! This Sea that bares her bosom to the moon; 5 The winds that will be howling at all hours, And are up-gathered now like sleeping flowers; For this, for everything, we are out of tune; It moves us not.—Great God! I’d rather be A Pagan suckled in a creed outworn; 10 So might I, standing on this pleasant lea, Have glimpses that would make me less forlorn; Have sight of Proteus rising from the sea; Or hear old Triton blow his wreathèd horn.

Introduction

William Wordsworth’s poem “The World Is Too Much With Us,” composed in 1802 and published in 1807, critiques the encroaching industrialization and materialism of the early 19th century. Written during a period of social and economic transformation in England, the poem reflects Wordsworth’s concerns about humanity's loss-of-connection to nature. This sonnet is influenced by Wordsworth’s personal experiences and his immersion in the natural landscapes of the Lake District, which shaped his poetic vision.

The poem adheres to the traditional sonnet form, specifically the Petrarchan (or Italian) sonnet, consisting of an octave and a sestet. The rhyme scheme (ABBAABBA in the octave, and CDCDCD in the sestet) and the iambic pentameter provide a structured framework that contrasts with the passionate and urgent plea within the verses. Wordsworth’s use of this form underscores the tension between human-made constraints and the energy of the natural world.

Central to “The World Is Too Much With Us” are themes of alienation and the conflict between nature and industrial society. Wordsworth laments the way human beings have become disconnected from the natural world, consumed by the pursuit of material wealth: “Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers” (l. 2). He mourns the loss of a deeper, more spiritual connection to nature, which he believes is vital for the human soul. The poem’s imagery captures this sense of loss and yearning for a return to a more harmonious existence with the natural environment.

As a quintessential Romantic poem, “The World Is Too Much With Us” embodies several key characteristics of the Romantic movement. It emphasizes emotion and intuition over reason, celebrates the sublime beauty of nature, and critiques the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and urbanization. Wordsworth’s invocation of pagan mythology, as he wishes for a life akin to that of the ancient Greeks who worshipped nature, reflects the Romantic fascination with the past and the idealization of a simpler, more integrated way of life.

In contemporary times, the poem’s relevance has only heightened. As modern society grapples with the consequences of industrialization, environmental degradation, and climate change, Wordsworth’s critique of materialism and his call for a renewed connection with nature resonate deeply. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world and maintaining a balance between progress and the environment. Through “The World Is Too Much With Us,” Wordsworth’s voice continues to inspire reflection on the relationship between humanity and nature in an age of unprecedented ecological challenges.

Questions for Consideration

1. Analyze how Wordsworth portrays the impact of industrialization and materialism on humanity’s relationship with nature. Discuss how specific imagery and diction in the poem reflect his critique of contemporary society.
2. Examine the Romantic characteristics in Wordsworth’s poem, focusing on elements such as the celebration of nature, emotional intensity, and the critique of industrial progress. How do these features align with the broader themes and concerns of the Romantic movement?
3. Discuss the significance of the Petrarchan sonnet form in “The World Is Too Much With Us.” How does the structure of the octave and sestet enhance the poem’s thematic development? Consider how the formal aspects contribute to the poem’s overall impact.
4. Explore Wordsworth’s use of pagan mythology and classical references in the poem. How do these elements contribute to his argument about the alienation from nature? Analyze the symbolic meaning of the references to Proteus and Triton and their relevance to the poem’s message.
5. Reflect on the contemporary relevance of “The World Is Too Much With Us.” In what ways do Wordsworth’s concerns about the disconnection from nature and the dominance of materialism resonate with current environmental and social issues? Draw parallels between the poem’s themes and modern debates about sustainability and environmental ethics.
6. Analyze the emotional tone of the poem and Wordsworth’s use of language to convey a sense of loss and yearning. How does Wordsworth’s choice of words and phrases evoke a powerful emotional response from the reader? Consider the role of sentiment and passion in communicating the poem’s central themes.
7. Investigate the meaning and implications of the line “Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers.” What does Wordsworth mean by “powers,” and how does the poem suggest these powers are being wasted? Discuss the significance of this critique in the context of the poem and its broader philosophical implications.
8. Write a personal reflection on how “The World Is Too Much With Us” resonates with your own experiences and views on nature and society. Consider how Wordsworth’s perspective influences your thoughts on contemporary environmental issues and the balance between progress and nature.

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