Poem Analysis - September 1819

A Transition and a Yearning

Wordsworth's "September, 1819" is a reflective poem steeped in the melancholy of approaching autumn, yet imbued with a persistent hope for the enduring power of poetry. The poem moves from observations of nature's transition into a meditation on the poet's own aging and a longing for the vitality of classical verse. A gentle sadness pervades the opening stanzas, gradually giving way to a passionate defense of poetry's power and a wistful yearning for the artistic heights of the past. The overall tone is one of contemplative reflection, punctuated by bursts of admiration and frustrated aspiration.

The Season of Mortality and Inspiration

One central theme is the passage of time and the acceptance of mortality. The initial imagery of "departing summer" taking on "an aspect tenderly illumed" immediately establishes a connection between the natural world and the human condition. The fading season mirrors the speaker's own aging, as he acknowledges his "leaf is sere, / And yellow on the bough." He recognizes that his prime is fading, symbolized by the desire to pass on the "rosy garlands" and "myrtle wreaths" to a younger generation. However, this acceptance is not entirely sorrowful. The speaker "temperately rejoice[s]," suggesting a balanced perspective, understanding that even in decline, there's still value and beauty to be found, and other worthwhile "themes" to explore.

The Enduring Power of Verse

The poem strongly emphasizes the enduring power and importance of poetry itself. Wordsworth views poetry as a force that transcends time, stating, "For deathless powers to verse belong." He elevates poets to the level of "Demi-gods" when favored by the Muses, highlighting their ability to create lasting works of art. This power, however, is contingent on the poet's dedication to truth and beauty. Wordsworth condemns those who "disclaimed" their function, preferring instead to create works that "enervate and defile." This shows a dedication to creating good and important poetry, and a belief in its necessity.

Echoes of the Past: A Yearning for Classical Greatness

A significant portion of the poem is dedicated to invoking the spirits of classical poets, highlighting Wordsworth's deep admiration for their achievements. He contrasts the corrupted verse of his time with the "initiatory strains" of ancient Britain, the war cries of Alcæus, and the passionate lyrics of Sappho. These examples serve as a benchmark against which he measures contemporary poetry, finding it often lacking. The yearning to discover a lost fragment of Theban verse or a scroll of Simonides is a powerful symbol of his desire to reconnect with the pure, unadulterated genius of the past. Is this yearning rooted in a genuine desire to learn, or a feeling that the art of his time is a disappointment?

A Legacy of Verse

In conclusion, "September, 1819" is a poignant meditation on aging, the enduring power of poetry, and the poet's relationship to the classical tradition. Wordsworth uses the imagery of the changing seasons to explore the themes of mortality and renewal, while simultaneously championing the power of verse to transcend time and inspire future generations. The poem reveals a deep reverence for the artistic achievements of the past and a hope that poetry can continue to serve as a source of truth, beauty, and inspiration in the present. The poem's lasting significance lies in its ability to capture the complex emotions of a poet grappling with his own mortality and the enduring legacy of his art.