I heard a thousand blended notes,
While in a grove I sate reclined,
In that sweet mood when pleasant thoughts
Bring sad thoughts to the mind.

To her fair works did Nature link
The human soul that through me ran;
And much it grieved my heart to think
What man has made of man.

Through primrose tufts, in that sweet bower,
The periwinkle trailed its wreaths;
And 'tis my faith that every flower
Enjoys the air it breathes.

The birds around me hopped and played,
Their thoughts I cannot measure-
But the least motion which they made
It seemed a thrill of pleasure.

The budding twigs spread out their fan,
To catch the breezy air;
And I must think, do all I can,
That there was pleasure there.

If this belief from heaven be sent,
If such ne Nature's holy plan,
Have I not reason to lament
What man has made of man?

William Wordsworth (1770-1850) was an English poet. You will notice that this poem is easy to read and to understand. This is because Wordsworth emphasises that poetry should be written in the natural language of common speech. Wordsworth repeatedly emphasised the importance of nature to an individual's intellectual and spiritual development. A good relationship with nature helps individuals connect to both the spiritual and the social worlds.

blended : combined

sate : (old English) sat

reclined : leaned back in a relaxed position

grieved : caused intense sorrow or sadness

bower : a shady pleasant place under a tree or a climbing plant in a garden or wood

periwinkle : a plant which has flowers five petals and glossy leaves

primrose : a plant found in forests which produces pale yellow flowers in early spring

lament : express feelings of grief or sorrow