His previous perception of nature seemed to consume him as he then had an “appetite” for the “coulours” and “forms” of the mountains and woods that nature so graciously offered to him (80). This hungry appetite for nature soon fades, however, as he states “That time is past, and all its aching joys are now no more” (84-5). He describes this new outlook he has obtained as he states:
For I have learned
To look on nature, not as in the hour
Of thoughtless youth, but hearing oftentimes
The still, sad music of humanity,
Not harsh nor grating, though of ample power
To chasten and subdue. (89-94)
This evolution of thought brings about a new philosophical and/or spiritual dimension to Wordsworth’s view of nature. As he once believed nature was merely present for his pleasure and leisure, not to be taken seriously but as an escape for “restoration,” now he feels nature is an inspiration and a connection to God from which he can learn new things and grow spiritually.
The nature in “Tintern” is a positive influence for Wordsworth in his journey through life. Wordsworth is reflecting on his younger days when nature was his “all in all,” he is also reminded of the toll age has taken on his life, both physically and spiritually. he discovers continuity in the disparate pictures through a principle of growth, he becomes aware of the pattern of his life—he binds his apparently disparate days together. He may be said to evolve his soul in becoming aware that his soul evolves. In “Tintern” Wordsworth does not intend or wish to leave his youthful passions behind, but bind them together with new spiritual vision he has acquired . While he realizes his loss of vitality, “Tintern” presents the idea that nature serves as a form of rejuvenation for him. Though itself nature remains unchanged, Wordsworth develops a new perspective about nature and its purpose. He is not necessarily abandoning his devotion for nature, but finding a new way to appreciate it.
Thomas Raysor takes a closer look at Wordsworth’s perception of immortality and this metamorphic process in his article “The Themes of Immortality and Natural Piety in Wordsworth’s Immortality Ode” by stating, “The gain in mature human tenderness is not a substitute which takes the place of the love of nature, whether inferior or superior; it is a means to continue the love of nature in a different form”. In “Tintern” Wordsworth has not yet lost his admiration for nature, but it is here that the reader begins to see his loss of youth and innocence which will ultimately lead to a detachment from nature.
Through “Tintern Abbey” Wordsworth presents his own spiritual growth and rejuvenation. in “Tintern Abbey” he experienced a spiritual connection with nature. Much of Wordsworth’s insight was derived from nature, though in some instances it was not portrayed so positively. By showing his own development and growth as a spiritual being, he creates two opposing realities: one, that nature is necessary and desirable for a spiritual connection and two, that nature will never fully take the place of eternity.