A Slumber Did My Spirit Seal

Class 9 – Poem: A Slumber Did My Spirit Seal (William Wordsworth) 1. About the Author William Wordsworth (1770–1850) was a famous English Romantic poet. He loved nature and believed that nature has a deep influence on human life and emotions. His poetry is simple in language but rich in feelings and thoughts. Wordsworth often wrote about nature, love, loss, and the spiritual connection between humans and the natural world. 2. Summary The poem describes the poet’s deep love for a young woman (often believed to be Lucy). The poet says that he was in a “slumber,” meaning he was emotionally unaware and did not fear losing her. He thought she was safe from time and death. However, now she is dead and has become a part of nature. She no longer feels human emotions like joy or pain and moves along with the earth as part of the natural cycle. 3. Theme The main themes of the poem are: Death and immortality Union of humans with nature Loss and realization Power of nature over human life The poem shows that death is natural and humans ultimately become one with nature. 4. Poetic Devices Alliteration: “Rolled round in earth’s diurnal course” (repetition of the ‘r’ sound) Metaphor: “A slumber did my spirit seal” – Slumber represents emotional unawareness. Personification: “Earth’s diurnal course” – Earth is shown as moving actively. Imagery: “Rocks, and stones, and trees” – Creates a clear picture of nature. Enjambment: Continuation of a sentence without a pause at the end of a line. 5. Characters The Poet (Speaker): Expresses love, grief, and realization. Lucy (Implied): A young woman loved by the poet, now dead and merged with nature. 6. Author’s Purpose Wordsworth wrote this poem to express his feelings about death and nature. He wanted to show that death is not frightening but a natural process. The poem teaches that human life is temporary, and after death, humans become a peaceful part of nature. ✨ Exam Tip This poem is short but very important. Focus on theme, poetic devices, and summary for exams. If you want, I can also provide important questions & answers, MCQs, or a short revision note 😊