“Whate’er the theme, the Maiden sang
As if her song could have no ending;
I saw her singing at her work.
And o’er the sickle bending;–
I listened, motionless and still;
And, as I mounted up the hill,
The music in my heart I bore,
Long after it was heard no more.”
–William Wordsworth, the last stanza of “The Solitary Reaper”
Well, there are life-defining poems that go way beyond ephemeral romantic interludes, with a music heard, stirring deeply within. Who can say what will change our lives forever whether it be Music, Beauty, Nature, Poetry, Love or the Arts?
For me, this remains a signature Wordsworth poem that does much to explain him, me, and many other Romantic artists. Memorable chosen words transcending the passage of time and ever-changing contexts. And yes, I still keep the song alive and intact deep within me.