"The world is too much with us; late and soon, Getting and spending we lay waste our powers . . ." What romantic idea is expressed in these lines from a poem by William Wordsworth?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lines express the romantic idea that humans are too focused on material pursuits, such as "Getting and spending," and as a result, their connection with nature is diminished. They "lay waste our powers" because they are not channeling their energies into a meaningful and fulfilling pursuit, such as appreciating and connecting with the natural world.

"The World Is Too Much with Us; Late and Soon