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 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.””
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.
Appreciate both ideal and real aspects of love.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- courtship
- artistic inspiration
- personal introspection
- relationship counseling
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “phantom” symbolize for you?
- How do you balance idealism with reality?
Idealized love may overlook practicalities of partnership.