Xi English Question 4 - Reference to the Context from Poetry Lines - Sonnet Composed Upon West Minster Bridge

Reference to the Context
Introduction
The given lines are an extract from the poem Sonnet Composed Upon Westminster Bridge written by William Words Worth. The poet describes and appreciates the beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the city of London as he looks at it in the early hours of morning. He considers it to be the most splendid, wonderful and charming sight in the world and believes that every one is bound to be impressed by it.




Lines
EARTH HAS NOT ANY THING TO SHOW MORE FAIR:

DULL WOULD HE BE OF SOUL WHO COULD PASS BY

A SIGHT SO TOUCHING IN ITS MAJESTY:

Explanation
As the poet stands upon the Westminster Bridge at dawn, he admires the beauty of the city of London. According to him, it is the most charming sight in the world. He feels that no onlooker can remain unimpressed by it. However, if one is not affected by the beauty and tranquility of the sight, it implies that he has lost all aesthetic sense and is devoid of all finer emotions.




Lines
THIS CITY NOW DOTH, LIKE A GARMENT WEAR

THE BEAUTY OF THE MORNING; SILENT, BARE,

SHIPS, TOWERS, DOMES, THEATRES AND TEMPLES LIE

OPEN UNTO THE FIELDS, AND TO THE SKY;

ALL BRIGHT AND GLITTERING IN THE SMOKELESS AIR.

Explanation
The poet describes the city as he observes it in the early hours of the day. The city of London seems to be wearing the dress of beauty and serenity. Everything can be seen clearly sparkling in the fog less surrounding. While standing on the bridge, the poet can observe the ships sailing, the towers and domes of buildings, the different places of worship and amusement. Since the atmosphere is free from smoke and pollution, everything seems to be dazzling in the rays of the rising sun.




Lines
NEVER DID SUN MORE BEAUTIFULLY STEEP

IN HIS FIRST SPLENDOUR VALLEY, ROCK OR HILL;

NE’ER SAW I, NEVER FELT, A CALM SO DEEP!

THE RIVER GLIDETH AT HIS OWN SWEET WILL;

DEAR GOD! THE VERY HOUSES SEEM ASLEEP;

AND ALL THAT MIGHTY HEART IS LYING STILL!

Explanation
The city of London appears to be coloured with golden tint of the majestic sun. The rays of the sun cover even the valleys and hills around the cosmopolitan city. The poet points out that he has not experienced such a peaceful atmosphere in his life. Moreover, he has never come across such an appealing and impressive view. He sees the River Thames flowing gently and smoothly under the bridge. He realizes that the entire city seems to be sounding asleep. All the places that are full of hustle and bustle and hectic activity are at this time serene and peaceful. London being the heart of England is bubbling with life and activity but at dawn, it appears to be at rest and presents a wonderful picture of unrivalled charm and tranquility.