Adonais Man and the Natural World Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Line)

Quote #1

The bloom, whose petals nipp'd before they blew
Died on the promise of the fruit, is waste;
The broken lily lies--the storm is overpast. (52-54)

Shelley often uses flowers to symbolize mankind. Like the destruction of a lily, the death of Adonais is a loss for the world. Both are a tragedy, in his eyes.

Quote #2

Afar the melancholy thunder moan'd,
Pale Ocean in unquiet slumber lay,
And the wild Winds flew round, sobbing in their dismay. (124-126)

The elements are sympathetic to man, and mourn the loss of the youth. Shelley uses personification to give them feelings that mirror his own. Ever notice how, when you are sad, even a pretty flower can seem mournful?

Quote #3

Grief made the young Spring wild (136)

Even the seasons are bummed out about losing Adonais. He gives these seasons proper names to show that they are indeed characters in the poem, with separate feelings and motives.