Question

Read the following extract from William Wordsworth's poem, 'Daffodils' and answer the questions that follow:

When all at once I saw a crowd A host, of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

1. Wordsworth uses the words, 'wondered' and 'lonely' to describe himself in the opening lines of the poem.
   What mood do these words convey?
   What let to a change in his mood? [3]
2. How does Wordsworth describe the sight that met his eyes?
   Give a brief description of what the poet saw. [3]
3. To what does the poet compare this sight?
   How is this comparison appropriate? [3]
4. What does the poet mean when he says, 'Ten thousand saw I at a glance'?
   Find two other words in the given extract that create the impression of large numbers. [3]
5. What immediate effect did this sight have on Wordsworth?
   How did it affect him in the long-term?
   What does this poem tell us about Wordsworth's attitude to Nature? [4]

Answer 1

1. The poet utilizes the evocative term "wandered" to express his deep feelings of isolation and loneliness in an unfamiliar environment. Potentially lacking companionship or guidance, he navigates the unknown landscape without a clear purpose. However, a fortuitous moment occurs when he discovers a captivating scene: a group of daffodils gracefully floating on the surface of a nearby lake, gleaming brightly in the warm sunlight. The exquisite and majestic nature of these beautiful flowers promptly lifts his gloomy spirits, replacing his heart with unrestrained happiness and pleasure.
2. Wordsworth is captivated by the splendid view of the golden daffodils, their delicate petals gleefully swaying and dancing harmoniously with the gentle breeze. This exquisite exhibition of nature's magnificence effectively dispels his profound sense of loneliness for a brief moment as he revels in the presence of these magnificent flowers. The daffodils stretch out in what appears to be an endless line, their radiant splendour surpassing even the width of the flowing water in the lake, a true testament to their breathtaking beauty. Wordsworth is astounded by the sheer quantity of these magnificent blooms as he surveys the entire lake, where they shimmer and sway beneath the thick branches of the trees.
3. Wordsworth compares the daffodils to stars in the Milky Way, capturing the overwhelming and boundless nature of their beauty. Just as the stars seem endless, the line of daffodils stretches continuously before him, filling his sight and imagination with their radiance. This analogy emphasizes the poet's awe and amazement, underscoring the immense scale of natural beauty. It also highlights the timeless and enduring qualities of the natural world, inspiring poets and thinkers across generations. Overall, the comparison elevates the significance of the daffodils, showcasing their enduring power to inspire and uplift the human spirit.
4. The expression "ten thousand saw I at a glance" is a metaphorical representation of the immense abundance of flowers observed by the poet, underscoring the grandeur and scale of the sight. Through this phrase, the poet conveys that the vast number of daffodils appears to extend continuously, forming an unparalleled exhibition of natural beauty. Additionally, the expression reflects the poet's overwhelming awe and fascination with the scene, leaving him speechless and captivated by the sheer magnitude of the blossoms. The use of "crowds" and "host" further emphasizes the enormity and multitude evoked by this vision.
5. The daffodils profoundly affected the poet's mood, even at the mere thought of them bringing joy to his heart. Their beauty left an enduring mark on him, altering his perspective on the world and deepening his appreciation for nature. In the poem, Wordsworth reveals a deep love for nature, using vivid language to portray its beauty, especially the blooming daffodils. He sees nature as a rich source of inspiration and views it as a spiritual and emotional sanctuary that provides solace in challenging times. The poem highlights Wordsworth's belief in nature's rejuvenating power, showcasing how the daffodils can transform despair into joy and inspiration.