Meaning: This quote is from the poem "The Minstrel" by James Beattie, a Scottish poet and philosopher who lived from 1735 to 1803. The poem, published in two parts in 1771 and 1774, tells the story of a young poet named Edwin who leaves his rural home to seek knowledge and adventure. The passage you've quoted captures a moment of tranquility and beauty in nature, as the poet describes the peaceful atmosphere of a quiet evening in a rural setting.

The quote reflects the poet's appreciation for the serene and harmonious aspects of nature. It evokes a sense of calm and stillness, as the hamlet settles into quietness and the natural world takes center stage. Beattie's use of imagery, such as the "torrent... heard on the hill" and the "nightingale's song in the grove," creates a vivid picture of a peaceful and idyllic scene.

The first line, "At the close of the day when the hamlet is still," sets the stage for the tranquility that follows. The reference to the hamlet being still suggests a sense of calm and restfulness, as the activities of the day wind down and the inhabitants of the village prepare for the night ahead. This image of the quiet, peaceful hamlet creates a sense of serenity and relaxation.

The second line, "and mortals the sweets of forgetfulness prove," suggests that during this time of peace and stillness, the troubles and worries of the day are forgotten. The word "sweets" emphasizes the pleasantness of this forgetfulness, hinting at a sense of relief and contentment that comes with the setting of the sun.

The third and fourth lines, "when naught but the torrent is heard on the hill, and naught but the nightingale's song in the grove," further emphasize the tranquility of the scene. The mention of the "torrent" and the "nightingale's song" highlights the sounds of nature that fill the evening air, replacing the noise and busyness of the day with the soothing sounds of the natural world. This contrast between the sounds of human activity and the sounds of nature reinforces the peaceful and restful atmosphere of the moment.

Overall, this quote from "The Minstrel" conveys a sense of appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of nature, as well as the restorative power of quietude and stillness. It captures a timeless and universal experience of finding solace and peace in the natural world, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Beattie's skillful use of language and imagery transports the reader to this idyllic setting, inviting them to share in the poet's reverence for the serene and harmonious aspects of the natural world.