Leisure
William Henry Davies
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 they 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.
Theme: The theme of Leisure by William Henry Davies is the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple beauty of life. The poem criticizes the fast pace of modern life, where people are too preoccupied with their daily routines to notice the wonders of nature and the world around them. It calls for taking time to enjoy life’s small pleasures, suggesting that a life without leisure and reflection is unfulfilled.
Summary: In Leisure by William Henry Davies, the speaker reflects on the hectic pace of modern life, where people are too busy to enjoy the beauty of nature and their surroundings. The poem emphasizes that life’s simple pleasures, like watching squirrels or admiring the beauty of a stream, are often overlooked in the rush of daily activities. The speaker regrets that people rarely take time to pause and appreciate these moments. Ultimately, the poem argues that a life without leisure and mindfulness is incomplete and lacks true fulfillment.
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