S5 E2 Surprised by Joy William Wordsworth
Surprised by Joy’ is a heart-breaking poem written by William Wordsworth when recalling the grief of his daughter Catherine’s passing. The poem is written in the form of a sonnet, with the first eight lines describing his initial shock and disbelief, and the last six lines expressing his deep sorrow and regret.
William Wordsworth experienced a great deal of pain throughout his life. His poem “Surprised by Joy” is an expressive piece that reflects on his life and his ability to find joy amidst grief. With his poetic words, he expresses surprise at the unexpected joy that came to him even when grieving. He questions why he can feel joy when his daughter is no longer with him.
William Wordsworth captures the emptiness of grief with words that express a profound understanding of loss. Yet, there is joy. He reminds us that joy can be found in the most unexpected of places, bringing us back to a time of our most cherished memories.
Surprised by Joy
by William Wordsworth
Surprised by joy—impatient as the Wind
I turned to share the transport—Oh! with whom
But Thee, long buried in the silent Tomb,
That spot which no vicissitude can find?
Love, faithful love, recalled thee to my mind—
But how could I forget thee?—Through what power,
Even for the least division of an hour,
Have I been so beguiled as to be blind
To my most grievous loss!—That thought’s return
Was the worst pang that sorrow ever bore,
Save one, one only, when I stood forlorn,
Knowing my heart’s best treasure was no more;
That neither present time, nor years unborn
Could to my sight that heavenly face restore.
Recitation and photography by Rebecca Budd
Music by Gavin Luke “To the Moon and Beyond” #EpidemicSound
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/H6shp6f3WB/
