The Recluse
Description:
LibriVox presents an audio reading of The Recluse by William Wordsworth.
Narrated in English by Andrea Fiore.
In the introductory note of the 1850 First Edition of The Prelude, it is mentioned that this poem was meant to serve as a prelude to The Recluse. If it had been completed, The Recluse would have featured three distinct sections. The second section is represented by The Excursion, while the third was only conceptualized. The initial book of the first section existed solely in manuscript form, and it is now being published in its entirety for the first time in 1888. (Summary derived from the Preface)
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M4B audio book (22mb)
Plot summary (can contain spoilers!):
"The Recluse" is an unfinished philosophical poem by William Wordsworth that explores the relationship between nature, humanity, and the inner workings of the mind. The work is structured in three parts, reflecting Wordsworth's meditative thoughts on solitude, the moral and spiritual dimensions of existence, and the impact of nature on human emotion and understanding. Wordsworth aims to depict the solitary life of a thinker who seeks deeper truths about life and the universe through introspection and a connection with the natural world.
The poem begins by delving into the recluse's contemplative solitude, examining the quiet yet powerful influences of nature that shape human thought and experience. Wordsworth presents the recluse as someone who, while physically isolated, engages with profound philosophical questions, contemplating the essence of life, the passage of time, and the enduring beauty of the landscape around him. This connection to nature serves as a backdrop for his reflections, emphasizing the importance of the natural world in fostering emotional and intellectual clarity.
The unfinished status of "The Recluse" adds to its intrigue, leaving readers to ponder the various trajectories Wordsworth might have taken. The work serves not only as a personal exploration of the poet's own thoughts on life and existence but also as a broader commentary on the human condition, inviting readers to reflect on their relationships with both themselves and the world around them. Through lyrical language and profound philosophical inquiry, Wordsworth crafts a tapestry of ideas that continue to resonate with readers interested in the nature of solitude and the quest for understanding.