="font-weight: 400;">In “Tintern Abbey” (1798), William Wordsworth (1770-1850) talks about three important stages of personal growth and his relationship with nature. Each stage shows how his feelings and thoughts about nature have changed as he grew older. These stages show his emotional and spiritual development as the poet revisits the banks of the Wye (river) during a tour. 

The Three Stages of Growth that Wordsworth refers to in "Tintern Abbey”

First Stage: The Joyful Experience of Childhood: In the first stage, Wordsworth recalls his childhood, when he was deeply connected to nature. In his childhood, he saw nature as a source of pure joy and excitement. He describes how, as a boy, he would run and play in the mountains and rivers. He says,

“I bounded o’er the mountains, by the sides 

Of the deep rivers,...” 

In this stage, nature filled him with happiness and energy. Nature was his whole world. He did not need to think about nature’s meaning. He simply enjoyed its beauty and freedom. His relationship with nature was driven by physical joy and a sense of adventure. It is much like an innocent child who finds delight in the natural world.

Second Stage: The Fearful and Emotional Youth: As Wordsworth grew older, he entered the second stage, where his emotions became more complex. In this stage, he reflects on his earlier experiences with nature. He realizes that his understanding has changed. He can no longer enjoy nature in the same carefree way he did as a boy. Instead, his relationship with the natural world has become more thoughtful. Wordsworth acknowledges this change. He says,

“That time is past, 

And all its aching joys are now no more,”

Although he has lost the simple joys of youth, he does not mourn this change. Instead, he finds a new sense of fulfillment. He contemplates nature with a deeper awareness of human life and emotions. Now, he hears,

“The still sad music of humanity,”

The line represents his recognition of the struggles and sufferings in the world. This stage is marked by reflection and a more mature understanding of nature's connection to human existence.

Third Stage: Spiritual Maturity: In the final stage, Wordsworth describes his mature understanding of nature as an adult. Now, he does not love nature for its beauty or the strong feelings it gives him. Instead, he sees nature as something deeper, more spiritual, and connected to his inner self. He feels a sense of unity with nature. He believes that nature is filled with a divine presence that connects all living things. Wordsworth describes this feeling as,

“a sense sublime 

Of something far more deeply interfused,”

Wordsworth expresses a deep spiritual or emotional connection with nature through this quote.

At this stage, he sees nature as a powerful force that “impels all thinking things” and “rolls through all things.” This stage shows a spiritual awakening, where Wordsworth sees nature as a guiding force in life.  It gives him “tranquil restoration” and helps him feel at peace, even when life is difficult.

In conclusion, Wordsworth’s growth through the three stages of his relationship with nature shows how people can change over time. In childhood, he enjoyed nature with pure happiness. In youth, he experienced strong emotions. And in adulthood, he found deeper meaning in nature. This journey shows how nature shapes the mind and spirit. This makes the poem a powerful reflection of personal growth.