Poem Analysis - The Reverie Of Poor Susan

A Fleeting Glimpse of Paradise

William Wordsworth's "The Reverie of Poor Susan" is a poignant exploration of memory and escapism. The poem paints a picture of a woman transported by a simple song to a vivid recollection of her rural past. Initially, the poem exudes a sense of wonder and joy, quickly contrasted with the crushing reality of her present circumstances. The overall tone is melancholic, highlighting the bittersweet nature of nostalgia and the pain of displacement. The poem's beauty lies in its delicate portrayal of the power of imagination and the longing for a simpler, more idyllic life.

The Longing for Home: A Central Theme

One of the primary themes in "The Reverie of Poor Susan" is the powerful longing for home. The thrush's song acts as a catalyst, triggering Susan's vivid memories of a rural landscape far removed from the urban setting of Wood Street. Wordsworth uses evocative imagery to depict this idealized past: "Green pastures she views in the midst of the dale," and "a single small cottage, a nest like a dove's." These descriptions emphasize the peace, tranquility, and simplicity of her former life. The phrase "the one only dwelling on earth that she loves" underscores the depth of her attachment and the sense of loss she experiences in its absence.

The Transient Nature of Joy

The poem also delves into the theme of the transient nature of joy and happiness. Susan's idyllic vision is fleeting; the initial enchantment quickly dissipates. The lines "but they fade, / The mist and the river, the hill and the shade" illustrate how fragile and ephemeral these moments of escapism are. The repetition of "will not" in "The stream will not flow, and the hill will not rise" emphasizes the finality of the vision's disappearance, highlighting the harsh reality of Susan's present situation and the impossibility of permanently returning to her past. The colours that "passed away from her eyes" symbolizes the loss of her joy and innocence.

Escape Through Memory and Imagination

Finally, the poem considers the theme of escape through memory and imagination. In the drab, urban environment, Susan finds solace and brief respite in her memories. The thrush's song serves as a portal, allowing her to temporarily transcend her physical surroundings. This act of imaginative escape suggests the power of the human mind to create its own reality, even in the face of hardship. The imagery of the "mountain ascending" and the "river" flowing through Cheapside implies a powerful act of will, a temporary triumph of the imagination over the grim reality of her surroundings.

Symbols of Loss and Yearning

Several symbols contribute to the poem's overall message. The thrush, with its "loud" and persistent song, can be interpreted as a symbol of nature's enduring presence, even within the urban landscape. It represents the voice of the past, calling Susan back to her roots. The "small cottage, a nest like a dove's" functions as a potent symbol of home, comfort, and belonging. Its diminutiveness emphasizes the simplicity and innocence of Susan's former life, further highlighting the disparity between her past and present circumstances. The "bright volumes of vapour" might symbolize the elusive and insubstantial nature of dreams and memories, beautiful yet ultimately fleeting.

A Bittersweet Reflection

In conclusion, "The Reverie of Poor Susan" is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, displacement, and the power of imagination. Through vivid imagery and a delicate balance of joy and sorrow, Wordsworth captures the bittersweet experience of remembering a cherished past that is now unattainable. The poem highlights the human need for connection to nature and the pain of being uprooted from one's home. Ultimately, "The Reverie of Poor Susan" serves as a reminder of the enduring power of memory and the human capacity to find solace, however fleeting, in the realm of the imagination.