Notes on "London 1802" by William Wordsworth

Overview

• Poet: William Wordsworth (1770-1850)
• Theme: Criticism of the Industrial Revolution and its impact on London and England.
• Focus: Praises John Milton and expresses a desire to return to Milton's time.

Key Themes

Criticism of Industrialization

• Industrial Revolution seen as a loss of values.
• Technological advancement contrasted with moral and spiritual decline.
• London as a center of industrialization criticized for losing its values.

Praise for John Milton

• Milton is seen as a symbol of lost moral and social values.
• Milton's era (17th century) is portrayed as a time of greater virtue.
• Wordsworth wishes for Milton's return to restore societal values.

Analysis of the Poem

Opening Lines

• "Milton thou should be living at this hour":
  • A call for Milton's presence in contemporary times.
  • Expresses the need for Milton's guidance in England.

Metaphors and Imagery

• "England is a fen of stagnant waters":
  • Fen symbolizes stagnation and lack of progress in values.
  • Critiques the static nature of English society.
• Altar, sword, pen, fireside, hall, bower:
  • Represents the church, military, writers, domestic life, and aristocracy.
  • These institutions are accused of losing their "ancient English dower of inward happiness".

Social Criticism

• "We are selfish men":
  • Decline in altruism and increase in selfishness.
  • A plea for Milton to raise spiritual and moral standards.

Praise for Milton's Virtues

• Milton's Soul and Voice:
  • Described as like a star and whose voice was like the sea.
  • Represents purity, majesty, and freedom.
• Milton's Life and Work:
  • Lived humbly and godly, performing lowliest duties.
  • Symbolizes honesty, virtue, and lack of ambition for personal gain.

Conclusion

• The poem contrasts Milton's virtues with the loss of moral fiber in contemporary society.
• Wordsworth uses Milton as an ideal to criticize modern social decay.

Final Thoughts

• The poem serves as a critique of progress at the cost of spiritual and moral decline.
• Wordsworth emphasizes the need for a return to the values represented by John Milton.

If you found this analysis helpful, consider reviewing more of Wordsworth's works for further insights into his perspective on nature and society.