The time of day have to do with the type of scene depicted in the sonnet “Composed upon Westminster Bridge” by Wordsworth

In William Wordsworth’s sonnet “Composed upon Westminster Bridge,” the time of day plays a crucial role in shaping the scene depicted in the poem. By focusing on the early morning hours, Wordsworth presents a unique and sublime perspective of London’s landscape, capturing the beauty and tranquility that can be found in an urban setting. Through the juxtaposition of the stillness of dawn and the bustling city, Wordsworth highlights the transformative power of nature and invites readers to reconsider their preconceived notions about the nature of beauty and harmony.

The sonnet begins with the speaker’s observation of the cityscape from Westminster Bridge at the break of day. The first line, “Earth has not anything to show more fair,” immediately captures the reader’s attention and establishes the grandeur and beauty of the scene. The time of day, characterized by the stillness and serenity of the early morning, contributes to the sense of awe and wonder that permeates the poem.

Wordsworth’s vivid descriptions and use of sensory imagery further enhance the portrayal of the scene. The poem is filled with visual details that evoke a sense of calmness and beauty, such as the “silent, bare” houses, the “ships, towers, domes, theatres, and temples,” and the “open fields” that surround the city. These descriptions serve to emphasize the tranquility and majesty of the landscape, emphasizing the impact of the time of day on the scene.

The poem’s focus on the early morning hours is significant because it presents a departure from the conventional depictions of urban landscapes. Cities are often associated with noise, chaos, and congestion, but Wordsworth’s portrayal challenges these assumptions. By choosing to write about London at dawn, he reveals a different aspect of the city that is often overlooked — a moment of stillness and harmony before the bustle of daily life takes over.

The time of day also influences the mood and tone of the poem. The peacefulness and quietude of the early morning create a sense of serenity and contemplation. Wordsworth’s use of diction, such as “calm,” “beauty,” and “glittering,” evokes a sense of tranquility and wonder that is synonymous with the time of day. This choice of words contributes to the overall meditative and introspective tone of the poem, inviting readers to pause and appreciate the fleeting beauty of the scene.

Furthermore, the time of day highlights the transformative power of nature. Wordsworth’s emphasis on the stillness and beauty of the scene suggests that nature has the ability to transcend and harmonize with human creations. The cityscape, though man-made, is seamlessly integrated into the natural environment during the early morning hours. This integration symbolizes the potential for unity and harmony between humanity and the natural world.

The choice to focus on the time of day also reflects Wordsworth’s Romantic ideals and his belief in the power of nature to inspire and uplift the human spirit. The Romantic movement emphasized a connection with nature as a means to access deep emotions and spiritual truths. By depicting the cityscape in the early morning, Wordsworth suggests that even in the heart of an urban environment, one can experience a profound connection with nature and the sublime.

In conclusion, the time of day in Wordsworth’s sonnet “Composed upon Westminster Bridge” plays a significant role in shaping the scene depicted in the poem. By focusing on the early morning hours, Wordsworth presents a unique perspective of London’s landscape, highlighting the beauty, tranquility, and transformative power of nature. The stillness and serenity of the early morning contribute to the overall sense of awe and wonder that permeates the poem, challenging conventional notions of urban landscapes. Through his vivid descriptions and sensory imagery, Wordsworth invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of beauty and harmony and to appreciate the profound connection between humanity and the natural world.