Sonnet Composed Upon Westminster Bridge

William Wordsworth

Definition of a Sonnet

A sonnet is a poem of 14 lines, usually written in iambic pentameter, and often following a strict rhyme scheme. Traditionally, sonnets explore themes of love, beauty, nature, or philosophical reflection. Wordsworth’s sonnet follows the Petrarchan (Italian) structure, with an octave (first 8 lines) and a sestet (last 6 lines).

About the Poet

William Wordsworth (1770–1850) was one of the most influential Romantic poets. He celebrated nature, beauty, and the profound emotions that arise from observing the natural and physical world.

Summary of the Poem

The poem describes the poet’s awe at the beauty of London as seen from Westminster Bridge in the early morning. The city, bathed in soft morning light and free from the usual hustle and bustle, appears calm and majestic. The sky, river Thames, and architectural landmarks create a harmonious scene. Wordsworth praises this rare tranquility, declaring that Earth has nothing more beautiful to show.

Explanation (Line-by-Line)

1. “Earth has not anything to show more fair” – The poet begins with a bold claim that no sight on earth is more beautiful than what he sees at that moment.

2. “Dull would he be of soul who could pass by” – Anyone unmoved by this view must have no appreciation for beauty.

3. “A sight so touching in its majesty” – The scene is both emotionally moving and grand.

4. “This City now doth, like a garment, wear / The beauty of the morning” – London is dressed in the fresh beauty of dawn.

5. “Silent, bare, / Ships, towers, domes, theatres, and temples lie” – The city’s landmarks stand quietly, without the noise and activity of the day.

6. “Open unto the fields, and to the sky” – The city appears open and in harmony with nature.

7. “All bright and glittering in the smokeless air” – The absence of industrial smoke allows the morning light to shine clearly.

8. “Never did sun more beautifully steep / In his first splendour, valley, rock, or hill” – The morning sunlight has never illuminated nature more beautifully than it does the city now.

9. “Ne’er saw I, never felt, a calm so deep!” – The poet feels an intense sense of peace.

10. “The river glideth at his own sweet will” – The River Thames flows gently and freely.

11. “Dear God! the very houses seem asleep” – Even the buildings seem to rest.

12. “And all that mighty heart is lying still!” – The bustling city, usually full of life, is momentarily at rest.

Central Idea

The poem captures the serene beauty of London at dawn, showing that even a bustling city can be as peaceful and awe-inspiring as the natural landscapes celebrated in Romantic poetry. Wordsworth’s sonnet is a reminder to pause and appreciate moments of stillness and harmony in unexpected places.

Literary Devices Used

• Simile – “like a garment” compares the city wearing morning beauty to a person wearing clothes.

• Personification – The city, river, and houses are given human qualities.

• Hyperbole – Claiming nothing on earth is more beautiful.

• Imagery – Vivid descriptions appeal to the senses.

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