The grim shape Towered up between me and the stars, and still, For so it seemed, with purpose of its own And measured motion like a living thing, Strode after me.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker feels pursued by a colossal, living-like shadow that blocks the stars and moves with deliberate intent.
- In plain terms
- A huge shadow moved like a living thing and seemed to chase the speaker.
- What can you take from it?
- Imagination can make inanimate objects feel like pursuing threats.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What shapes have you felt pursuing you?
- When did nature feel alive?
Another view
It attributes agency to natural features that are not actually sentient.
More from William Wordsworth
Dust as we are, the immortal spirit grows Like harmony in music; there is a dark Inscrutable workmanship that reconciles Discordant elements, makes them cling …
Permalink to quote #125 Huge and mighty forms, that do not live Like living men, moved slowly through the mind By day, and were a trouble to my dreams.
Permalink to quote #127 Fair seedtime had my soul, and I grew up Fostered alike by beauty and by fear.
Permalink to quote #124
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