The Prelude – William Wordsworth

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192.76

An autobiographical epic in blank verse tracing the spiritual and poetic development of Wordsworth from childhood to maturity in the context of nature and imagination.

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William Wordsworth’s The Prelude, begun in 1799 and revised throughout his life, is a monumental autobiographical poem and a cornerstone of English Romantic literature. Written in blank verse, it is an introspective exploration of the growth of the poet’s mind and soul in relation to nature, memory, and experience. The poem, subtitled “Growth of a Poet’s Mind,” is structured around the key stages of Wordsworth’s life—from his childhood among the Lake District’s natural beauty to his experiences in France during the Revolution, and his mature reflections on humanity and creativity. Nature is not merely scenic in The Prelude; it is a moral and spiritual force that shapes identity, inspires awe, and teaches transcendental truths. Wordsworth presents nature as a constant companion and educator, while also acknowledging moments of alienation and fear. The poem moves between grand philosophical meditations and finely detailed memories—such as skating on a frozen lake or climbing a mountain—imbued with emotional depth. Though not published until after Wordsworth’s death, The Prelude is now considered a defining achievement of Romanticism. It exemplifies the Romantic belief in the individual’s inner world, the primacy of imagination, and the sacred connection between humanity and the natural world.