Meaning: The quote "What would the world be, once bereft Of wet and wildness? Let them be left, O let them be left, wildness and wet, Long live the weeds and the wildness yet." is a powerful and thought-provoking verse by Gerard Manley Hopkins, a renowned English poet of the Victorian era. This quote reflects Hopkins' deep appreciation for the natural world and his concern for the potential loss of its untamed beauty.

In this poignant verse, Hopkins contemplates the consequences of a world devoid of "wet and wildness." The use of the word "bereft" conveys a sense of loss and deprivation, suggesting that the absence of natural elements such as water and untamed landscapes would fundamentally alter the world as we know it. By posing the question "What would the world be," Hopkins prompts readers to consider the implications of such a loss, inviting them to contemplate the value of wildness and the interconnectedness of nature.

The poet's plea to "let them be left, O let them be left" underscores his fervent desire for the preservation of wildness and wetness in the world. This impassioned appeal reflects Hopkins' belief in the intrinsic worth of untamed nature and his recognition of its vital role in sustaining the planet's ecological balance. The repetition of "wildness and wet" emphasizes the significance of these elements, reinforcing the poet's plea for their perpetuation.

"Long live the weeds and the wildness yet" serves as a resolute declaration of Hopkins' reverence for the resilience and enduring beauty of wild, unmanicured landscapes. The use of "weeds" here challenges conventional notions of beauty and order, celebrating the tenacity and diversity of plant life that thrives in untamed environments. By exclaiming "Long live," Hopkins expresses a fervent wish for the continued existence and flourishing of wildness, affirming its enduring significance in the face of potential threats.

This verse encapsulates Hopkins' environmental ethos, which aligns with the broader Romantic and Victorian movements that sought to revere and protect the natural world amidst the rapid industrialization and urbanization of the era. Hopkins' deep connection to nature and his sensitivity to its vulnerability are evident in this quote, as he urges readers to recognize the intrinsic value of wildness and wetness and to advocate for their preservation.

In contemporary society, Hopkins' words continue to resonate, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving the planet's natural landscapes and ecosystems. The quote prompts reflection on the consequences of human encroachment and environmental degradation, urging individuals to consider the long-term implications of neglecting or exploiting the wild and untamed spaces that enrich and sustain life on Earth.

In conclusion, Gerard Manley Hopkins' quote "What would the world be, once bereft Of wet and wildness? Let them be left, O let them be left, wildness and wet, Long live the weeds and the wildness yet" encapsulates the poet's profound reverence for the natural world and his fervent plea for the preservation of untamed beauty. Through his evocative language and impassioned appeal, Hopkins challenges readers to contemplate the intrinsic value of wildness and wetness, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of these elements in sustaining the planet's ecological harmony. This timeless verse serves as a compelling call to action, inspiring individuals to cherish and protect the precious, wild landscapes that enrich and define our world.