Poem Analysis - Written In London September 1802

A Lament for Lost Values

Wordsworth's "Written In London, September, 1802" is a cry of despair over what he perceives as the moral and spiritual decay of English society. The poem expresses a deep sense of disappointment and frustration, lamenting the loss of traditional values and the rise of materialism. Initially, the tone is one of lament and oppression, shifting later to a more accusatory and critical stance. Ultimately, the poem serves as a powerful indictment of a society consumed by superficiality and greed.

Echoes of Disillusionment: The Weight of Societal Shift

While the provided footnote offers no explicit historical context, the poem clearly resonates with the anxieties of the time. Wordsworth, writing during a period of significant social and political upheaval, including the aftermath of the French Revolution, was likely concerned about the impact of industrialization and the growing emphasis on wealth and status on the English populace. His poetry often reflects a longing for a simpler, more authentic way of life, rooted in nature and traditional values.

The Erosion of Virtue: A Central Theme

One of the central themes in the poem is the erosion of traditional virtue. Wordsworth laments the decline of "plain living and high thinking," suggesting that society has traded intellectual and spiritual pursuits for material gain. The lines "Rapine, avarice, expense, / This is idolatry; and these we adore" powerfully illustrate this point, equating the pursuit of wealth with a form of false worship. This highlights a perceived societal shift away from genuine values toward superficial obsessions.

The Allure of Superficiality: A Corrupting Influence

The poem also explores the theme of superficiality and the pursuit of appearances. Wordsworth criticizes a society "drest / For show," where individuals are valued based on their outward display rather than their inner worth. The image of people needing to "run glittering like a brook / In the open sunshine" emphasizes the pressure to maintain a facade of success and happiness. This pursuit of outward appearances, the poem implies, ultimately leads to a loss of genuine connection and fulfillment.

The Loss of Innocence: A Deep-Seated Fear

Finally, the theme of the loss of innocence pervades the poem. The lines "our peace, our fearful innocence, / And pure religion breathing household laws" evoke a sense of a past characterized by simplicity, moral clarity, and spiritual depth. The fact that these qualities are now "gone" suggests a profound sense of loss and a fear that society has become corrupted by greed and materialism. The "fearful innocence" might also suggest a vulnerability that has been exploited by these societal changes.

Glimmering Brooks and Idolatry: Decoding Powerful Imagery

The poem employs vivid imagery to convey its message. The image of a "brook" running "glittering like" in the sunshine symbolizes the superficiality of the society, where people must constantly strive to appear successful and happy. The "glittering" suggests something artificial and fleeting. In contrast, the imagery of "plain living" and "homely beauty" evokes a sense of simplicity and authenticity. The reference to "idolatry" is particularly powerful, suggesting that the worship of wealth has become a destructive force, replacing true faith and values.

Echoes of Discontent: A Lingering Question

The poem concludes with a powerful sense of regret and a plea for a return to traditional values. Wordsworth's lament for the "good old cause" and the "fearful innocence" of the past underscores his deep concern for the moral well-being of his society. "Written In London, September, 1802" serves as a timeless reminder of the dangers of materialism and the importance of upholding principles such as integrity, simplicity, and spiritual awareness.