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Delight Quote by William Wordsworth

“She Was A Phantom of Delight She was a Phantom of delight When first she gleam'd upon my sight; A lovely Apparition, sent To be a moment's ornament: Her eyes as stars of twilight fair; Like twilight's, too, her dusky hair; But all things else about her drawn From May-time and the cheerful dawn; A…” quote by William Wordsworth
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““ She Was A Phantom of Delight She was a Phantom of delight When first she gleam'd upon my sight; A lovely Apparition, sent To be a moment's ornament: Her eyes as stars of twilight fair; Like twilight's, too, her dusky hair; But all things else about her drawn From May-time and the cheerful dawn; A dancing shape, an image gay, To haunt, to startle, and waylay. I saw her upon nearer view, A Spirit, yet a Woman too! Her household motions light and free, And steps of virgin liberty; A countenance in which did meet Sweet records, promises as sweet; A creature not too bright or good For human nature's daily food, For transient sorrows, simple wiles, Praise, blame, love, kisses, tears, and smiles. And now I see with eye serene The very pulse of the machine; A being breathing thoughtful breath, A traveller between life and death: The reason firm, the temperate will, Endurance, foresight, strength, and skill; A perfect Woman, nobly plann'd To warn, to comfort, and command; And yet a Spirit still, and bright With something of an angel light.””

William Wordsworth

About This Quote

Source Poem: “She Was A Phantom of Delight” by William Wordsworth, 1805

The poem contrasts an ethereal, idealized love with a grounded, human partner, highlighting both transcendence and everyday reality.

In simple terms: A beautiful, fleeting love meets ordinary life.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate both ideal and real aspects of love.

Themes

love beauty humanity transcendence duality

Mood

contemplative romantic thoughtful

Type

poetic reflective

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • artistic inspiration
  • personal introspection
  • relationship counseling
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

idealization materialism temporal existence romanticism existential reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “phantom” symbolize for you?
  • How do you balance idealism with reality?
A Different Perspective

Idealized love may overlook practicalities of partnership.

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