Biography of William Wordsworth

 Biography of William Wordsworth

William Wordsworth was a famous English poet. His poems are filled with nature and human emotions. He is considered one of the leading poets of Romantic poetry. His works continue to inspire people even today. In this article, we will learn about his life in simple and easy words.

Early Life

William Wordsworth was born on 7 April 1770 in Cockermouth, Cumberland, England. His father’s name was John Wordsworth, who was a lawyer. His mother’s name was Anne Cookson. William had four siblings.

William’s mother passed away in 1778, when he was only eight years old. His father died in 1783. Thus, William became an orphan at an early age. After that, his relatives took care of him.

Education

William began his studies at Hawkshead Grammar School in Lancashire. There, he spent much time amidst nature, which was very special for him. Later, he went to the University of Cambridge, where he graduated in 1791.

While studying at Cambridge, William developed a passion for traveling. He visited France and Switzerland. These journeys greatly influenced his poetry.

Beginning of Poetry

William wrote his first poem in 1787, which was published in a school magazine. His poems were based on nature and human life. In 1793, his first book An Evening Walk was published, followed by Descriptive Sketches. These books brought him some recognition.

Friendship with Samuel Taylor Coleridge

In 1795, William met Samuel Taylor Coleridge. This friendship became an important part of his life. Together, they published the poetry collection Lyrical Ballads in 1798. This book marked the beginning of Romantic poetry. It included William’s famous poem Tintern Abbey.

Personal Life

In 1802, William married Mary Hutchinson, his childhood friend. They had five children, but three of them died at a young age. William was very close to his sister, Dorothy Wordsworth, who helped him in writing poetry.

William and Dorothy lived for a long time in Dove Cottage in Grasmere, where he wrote many of his famous poems.

Major Works

William’s poems were simple and full of feeling. Some of his major works include:

• The Prelude – His autobiographical poem, considered his greatest work.

• Daffodils – The first line “I wandered lonely as a cloud” is very famous.

• Tintern Abbey – A poem reflecting on nature and the depth of the human mind.

• Ode: Intimations of Immortality – Based on life and the innocence of childhood.

His poetry used the language of ordinary people. He regarded nature as his teacher and his poems connected people to nature.

Later Life

In 1813, William was appointed as a Stamp Distributor, which improved his financial situation. He moved to Rydal Mount in Grasmere, where he spent the last years of his life.

In 1843, William was made England’s Poet Laureate, a great honor. He remained in this position until his death.

Death

William Wordsworth died on 23 April 1850 in Grasmere, at the age of 80, due to a lung illness.

Legacy

William Wordsworth is considered the father of Romantic poetry. His poems are still read and admired today. His works show the deep connection between nature and human life. His poetry is a symbol of simplicity and beauty.

William tried to bring poetry into the language of ordinary people. His works have been translated into many languages. People around the world still draw inspiration from his poems.

Conclusion

William Wordsworth was a great poet. His poems beautifully portrayed nature and human emotions. His life was full of simplicity and creativity. His works will always live on in people’s hearts.