William Wordsworth - The Soul that rises with us

Ivan M. Granger April 29th, 2009

[5] The Soul that rises with us, our life’s Star, (from Ode. Intimations of Immortality)
by William Wordsworth

The Soul that rises with us, our life’s Star,
      Hath had elsewhere its setting,
            And cometh from afar:
      Not in entire forgetfulness,
      And not in utter nakedness,
But trailing clouds of glory do we come
      From God, who is our home.

— from Complete Poetical Works, by William Wordsworth


/ Photo by ewen and donabel /

I first heard this verse by Wordsworth in a recorded reading by the poet David Whyte. I still hear it in Whyte’s voice today. It doesn’t take much to get those last two lines dancing through my mind…

But trailing clouds of glory do we come
      From God, who is our home.

Have a beautiful day!

William Wordsworth, William Wordsworth poetry, Secular or Eclectic poetry William Wordsworth

England (1770 - 1850) Timeline
Secular or Eclectic

More poetry by William Wordsworth

4 Responses to “William Wordsworth - The Soul that rises with us”

  1. # Jim Atwellon 29 Apr 2009 at 9:55 am

    Slowly the tempest of darkness subsides and
    With gentle prodding the wind of the Divine blows through my soul.
    What song will I sing when the chimes of my soul sing forth and Love abounds?

    Much Love
    Jim Atwell

  2. # Debon 29 Apr 2009 at 10:02 am

    I haven’t heard David Whyte actually say those words, but it sure doesn’t take much for me to put them in his voice and hear them. And that is a lovely gift for the day.

  3. # akeem akinniyion 29 Apr 2009 at 10:27 am

    It reminds me of the whole poem. They echo in my heart, ring in my ears, delight my eyes. Thank you for giving this MOMENT. You are “Dear” Ivan.

  4. # Lindy Warrellon 29 Apr 2009 at 4:58 pm

    I love your commentary Ivan, it is brilliant. Also can’t help but notice what magnificent photos you manage to find to suit each poem. Lovely. Thanks as always.

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