The River Duddon: A Series of Sonnets by William Wordsworth is a timeless collection of poems that beautifully captures the essence and natural beauty of the River Duddon in England. Wordsworth's poetic skill and love for nature are evident in each sonnet, as he paints vivid and vivid images of the river and its surroundings.

The sonnets explore various themes such as tranquility, solitude, and the passage of time, all of which are reflected in the flow of the river. Wordsworth's use of language and imagery is truly captivating, drawing readers in and allowing them to immerse themselves in the peaceful and serene world he creates.

Overall, The River Duddon is a moving and enchanting collection of sonnets that showcases Wordsworth's mastery of the poetic form and his deep connection to nature. It is a must-read for any lover of poetry and the natural world.

Book Description:
Located in a part of Cumbria that was once part of Lancashire, the River Duddon rises in the high fells of the Lake District and flows for 25 miles through varied scenery before disappearing into the sands between Millom and Barrow-in-Furness. Wordsworth’s series of sonnets, inspired by his walks along the river, were written over a period of years, but are arranged so as to follow its downward course from the fells to the sea.

Part One of this reading consists of the 33 sonnets and postscript that were first published as a series in 1820. Later editions of Wordsworth’s works included a 34th sonnet, which is appended to Part One.

Part Two contains Wordsworth’s rather eccentric notes on the sonnets, which are largely taken up by an account of the remarkable career of the Reverend ‘Wonderful’ Walker, who lived to the age of 94 after serving as curate of Seathwaite chapel for 67 years from 1735 to 1802. I have read the sonnets using a northern English accent as I believe Wordsworth may have read them himself.