Leisure by William Henry Davies

William Henry Davies talks about modern life in this poem. The progress of civilization to modernity has several detrimental effects of human lives. It has snatched the simplicity away from modern people. According to the poet, nowadays all that a person needs are care and comfort. One does not have the leisure to enjoy natural vibes. In this poem, Davies upholds the importance of nature and how it helps one to keep his spirit alive.

This short poem could not be more pertinent to the world of today if it tried. It counsels us to take the time to "stand and stare" or, in other words, to slow down and observe all the beauty that surrounds you.

Summary

In this poem, Davies talks about the importance of being close to nature. The poem begins with some examples of what one can do to exhale the stress out of one's body. If one only acres about the body forgetting about how beautiful and soothing nature is, it will lead that person to spiritual poverty. Moreover, that poet makes use of imagery to portray the beauty in nature. All one has to do is to "stand and stare" at the simple activities of different creatures living close to nature.

Leisure

what is this life if, full of care,

we have no time to stand and stare.

No time to stand beneath the boughs

And stare as long as sheep or cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass,

Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight,

Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty's glance,

And watch her feet, how the can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can

Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

Don't let the world rush by without notice; open your eyes and see really see it in all its glory. Make space in your life for the simplest act of leisure.

Source > https://poemanalysis.com/william-h-davies/leisure/