The Grasmere Journals

By: Dorothy Wordsworth

Narrated by: Emma Fielding

Length: 8 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

This is perhaps one of the best-loved of all journals. William Wordsworth's sister, Dorothy, began it in May 1800 and resolved to keep it for a short time. She continued it for nearly three years.

In it, she brought the Dove Cottage years to vivid and intimate life. She noted the walks and weather, the friends, country neighbours, and travellers on the roads. She set down accounts of the garden, of Wordsworth's marriage, their concern for Coleridge, and the composition of Wordsworth's poetry.

Readings of some of Wordsworth's poems form the last part of this recording.

Public Domain (P)2014 Audible, Inc.

Grade 6

I memorized so much of the work of the poet William Wordsworth. little did I know that I would still be enjoying him at the age of 76

Wonderful

Wonderful, well-read journey into the daily activities of some of the greats of English literature, as close to first hand as we're ever to see of these important (for their time, revolutionary) poets.

We can't fault the journal for being what it was intended to be: daily jottings by sister Dorothy of daily events, travels, walks and various ailments, weather-watcher, bread-maker and, on occasion, some great observations of time and region, for example, the varying 'beggars' that come to life through vivid description.

Even in Grasmere one feels the social isolation: Dorothy's expectation, disappointments and receipt of letters takes up much more space in the journal than would otherwise be the case if these were not a primary and much anticipated communication.

It's interesting to see the casual, off-hand references to poems or the 'Lyrical Ballads' that ushered in English Romanticism. Occasionally, one has the impression, as Wordsworth later writes of humankind in the 'River Duddon' sequences, 'that they were greater than what they know'.

Very whimsical and relaxing

Dorothy writes passionately about the outdoors, gardening, friends, and walks. It is very relaxing to listen to her accounts of meeting friends on the road or trail and having tea with them. Her world is beautiful. She never married, but I think hidden in the text is a mention of a secret lover or lovers. She is never forthright. The narration is excellent.

so boring

What disappointed you about The Grasmere Journals?

The journal entries are meaningless. She'll spend an entire evening with Wordsworth and not mention a single thing they discussed.

What was most disappointing about Dorothy Wordsworth’s story?

There was no story, no thinking, no thoughts. It's all walks in the rain, day after day.