Nature: the natural world as it exists without human beings or civilization. The word nature conjures up the immediate image of a forest in the afternoon where the sun is shining and animals are running about. Everything is peaceful and serene, just like in William Wordsworth’s “Composed Upon Westminster Bridge.” Though there are no animals, no trees are present, and the poem is about the city of London, it is beautiful. There are many different connotations and definitions of nature depending on the how the word is used and in what scenario it is spoken. William Wordsworth attempts to change the typical definition of nature and beauty in his poem, and in doing so, allows the reader to explore different ways that nature can be present in the natural world.
The poem opens as Wordsworth describes London as he views it from the top of Westminster Bridge. He mentions that “dull would he be of soul who could pass by/ A sight so touching in its majesty” and not appreciate the view that is so wondrous to behold (Wordsworth lines 2-3). Only those who could not see real beauty would be able to pass over the bridge and not appreciate the sight that is placed so majestically before him. As he continues, Wordsworth personifies the city by stating that the city wears the morning like a garment, much like a lady in London wraps a shawl around her shoulders when venturing out in the early morning. As the speaker continues to gaze, he sees the early morning sun glinting off of the metallic