Final answer:
The speaker in a poem typically presents personal experiences or emotions, which is evident in William Wordsworth's poetry. Analyzing tone, diction, and rhythm helps understand the speaker's perspective and the poem's mood. Experts like Heidi J. Snow and Pamela Woof provide insights into the depth and emotional impact of Wordsworth's speakers.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the realm of poetry, understanding the speaker and their addressee is crucial for grasping the poem's full impact and scope. While the exact identity of the speaker may vary, it is generally an individual expressing personal experiences or emotions, sometimes a character created by the poet. In William Wordsworth's poetry, such as in 'The Wanderer', the speaker can often be seen as someone who relays a deeper connection with nature and human emotion. As readers, recognizing shifts in the speaking voice in the final stanzas and assessing whether the addressee remains constant is imperative for interpreting the poem's meaning and tone.
Through the analysis of diction and tone, one can determine the level of formality and mood in the poem, whether it be sad, contemplative, joyous, or bitter. Wordsworth is known for using the language of ordinary people which implies a certain authenticity and relatability in the voice of his speakers. The mood constructed can vary, as can the purpose of the poem, ranging from narrating an event to expressing an emotion. Wordsworth's poetry, as noted by Heidi J. Snow, often delves into deep emotional territory, which can affect readers on a visceral level, eliciting responses as if they themselves were part of the poem's universe.
The speaker seeks to create a connection with the listener, an effect that's achieved through the use of rhythm, pauses, stresses, and inflections. By analyzing these elements, the reader can better understand the speaker's emotions and state of mind. Moreover, expert scholars, such as Pamela Woof in her examination of Dorothy Wordsworth's journals, indicate that certain poems by William Wordsworth, particularly 'The Pedlar' from 'The Excursion', warranted significant attention. This focus on 'The Wanderer' section reflects the importance and complexity of the speaker's narrative voice within Wordsworth's works.