Memory in Wordsworth
In Wordsworth’s “Tintern Abbey,” the poet reflects on the power of memory and its ability to shape one’s perception of the world. The poem begins with the speaker revisiting a natural landscape after a five-year absence, and he is struck by how the memory of the place has become intertwined with his sense of self. Wordsworth writes, “These beauteous forms, / Through a long absence, have not been to me / As is a landscape to a blind man’s eye.” Here, the poet emphasizes the transformative nature of memory, suggesting that it can enrich one’s experience of the present.
Wordsworth’s approach to memory in “Tintern Abbey” aligns with his broader philosophy of nature and the human mind. The poem emphasizes the restorative power of the natural world and its ability to inspire a sense of tranquility and spiritual connection. As the speaker reflects on the impact of memory on his perception of the landscape, he also contemplates how memory shapes his understanding of the passage of time. Wordsworth writes, “And I have felt / A presence that disturbs me with the joy / Of elevated thoughts; a sense sublime / Of something far more deeply interfused.” Here, the poet suggests that memory can evoke a profound sense of wonder and contemplation, contributing to a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.
Memory in Lord Byron
On the other hand, Lord Byron’s “Don Juan” presents a different perspective on memory, as the poem explores the protagonist’s experiences and adventures. The narrative structure of “Don Juan” allows for a multifaceted exploration of memory as the speaker recounts various episodes from the protagonist’s life. A sense of irony and cynicism characterizes Byron’s approach to memory in the poem, as the speaker often adopts a satirical tone when reflecting on the protagonist’s encounters and the fleeting nature of his experiences.
In “Don Juan,” memory serves as a vehicle for the poet to comment on the absurdity and unpredictability of human existence. A sense of disillusionment and skepticism marks Byron’s portrayal of memory in the poem, as the speaker highlights the protagonist’s lack of control over his fate and the transient nature of his relationships and experiences.