Answer:

In his poem, “Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey,” William Wordsworth (1770-1850) wants to convey his missing memories of vigorous adolescence and thoughtless youth by the term ‘loss’. To put it clearly, the term “loss” refers to the sense of loss or separation that the poet feels when he revisits the Wye Valley after a long absence.

The loss that Wordsworth refers to is his innocent youth, especially what he enjoys in his boyhood adventures. At this period, nature performs only to provide him coarser pleasure. He then loves nature for its own sake. He can only experience the sensual beauty of nature because the mere colorful landscape satisfies his senses. The sounding waterfall, tall rocks and mountains, and woods give him a strong sensual passion. Now, he is mature and all his passion for nature has disappeared. But still, he believes nature can bring a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit.

To conclude, although Wordsworth certainly looks back to his past with nostalgia, he also seems to look to his future with expectation. The theme of loss in the poem reflects the poet’s changing outlook on life and the role of nature and memory in shaping his maturity.