Summary:
William Wordsworth’s sonnet “The World Is Too Much with Us” expresses frustration with humanity’s increasing detachment from nature due to materialism and industrialization. The poet laments that people are consumed by wealth and progress, losing their deep spiritual and emotional connection with the natural world. He contrasts this loss with the beauty of nature, referencing the sea, the moon, and mythological figures like Triton and Proteus to highlight what modern society fails to appreciate. In his desperation, Wordsworth wishes he were a pagan, believing that at least ancient religions embraced a reverence for nature. The poem conveys a tone of anger and sorrow over the destruction of this essential bond between humans and the environment.
MCQs:
- What is the main theme of the poem?
A) The beauty of the natural world
B) The conflict between nature and materialism
C) The importance of industrial progress
D) The power of human relationships
Answer: B) The conflict between nature and materialism - What does Wordsworth criticize in the poem?
A) The power of nature
B) The lack of education in society
C) Humanity’s obsession with material wealth
D) The rise of democracy
Answer: C) Humanity’s obsession with material wealth - What does Wordsworth say people have lost touch with?
A) Their ancestors
B) Their religious beliefs
C) The natural world
D) Their personal ambitions
Answer: C) The natural world
| Question | Answer |
| Poet | William Wordsworth |
| Year Written | 1802 |
| Year Published | 1807 |
| Poem Type | Sonnet |
| Themes | Materialism, nature, industrialization |
| Rhyme Scheme | ABBAABBACDCDCD |
| Tone | Frustrated, lamenting |
| Mythological References | Triton, Proteus |
| Poet’s Wish | To be a pagan, to better appreciate nature |
4. Which mythological figures does Wordsworth reference in the poem?
A) Zeus and Hera
B) Poseidon and Triton
C) Apollo and Artemis
D) Hades and Persephone
Answer: B) Poseidon and Triton
5. What does Wordsworth wish he were, so he could better appreciate nature?
A) A child
B) A shepherd
C) A pagan
D) A bird
Answer: C) A pagan
6. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
A) ABABABABCDCDCD
B) ABBAABBACDCDCD
C) AABBCCDDEEFFGG
D) ABCABCDEFDEFDE
Answer: B) ABBAABBACDCDCD
7. What is the tone of the poem?
A) Optimistic and hopeful
B) Angry and frustrated
C) Humorous and lighthearted
D) Indifferent and unemotional
Answer: B) Angry and frustrated
8. What poetic form is used in “The World Is Too Much with Us”?
A) Haiku
B) Free verse
C) Sonnet
D) Ballad
Answer: C) Sonnet
