Literal Meaning:
* Reverence for nature: The most straightforward interpretation is that "natural piety" refers to a deep respect and awe for the natural world. Wordsworth clearly feels a strong connection to nature, which he expresses through emotions like joy, wonder, and a sense of belonging.
Figurative Meaning:
* Childhood innocence: Some scholars suggest that "natural piety" represents the pure, unadulterated sense of wonder and awe that children possess. This innocence, they argue, is often lost as we grow older and become more jaded by the world.
* Connection to the divine: Others interpret "natural piety" as a connection to a higher power, whether through a traditional religious belief or a more spiritual sense of wonder. Nature, in this view, acts as a conduit to the divine, reminding us of our place in the universe.
* Reverence for the past: "Natural piety" can also be seen as a reverence for tradition and history, both personal and societal. Wordsworth's poem suggests that his early experiences in nature have shaped his identity and worldview, and that these memories hold a sacred significance for him.
Overall, "natural piety" in the poem encapsulates a profound sense of connection to the natural world, a connection that inspires awe, joy, and a sense of belonging. This connection, for Wordsworth, is both deeply personal and deeply meaningful, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing our connection to the natural world.
Wordsworth's poem is open to interpretation, and each reader can bring their own understanding of "natural piety" to the text. However, the poem's emphasis on the power of nature to evoke deep emotions and awaken the spirit suggests that "natural piety" is something essential to human well-being.