From Observations on the River Wye

In Gilpin's description of Tintern-abbey I like that it becomes an analogy for nature.
When he writes, "But if Tinter-abbey be less striking as a distant object it exhibits, on a
nearer view (when the whole together cannot be seen, but the eye settles on some of its
nobler parts) a very inchanting piece of ruin" (p.334). This idea that you cannot just look at
this place from afar and see ruins, but see it up close and appreciate it is often a difficult
task. Present day there is less appreciation for ruins or historical sites and the same goes for nature.
Gilpin points out that nature takes work to appreciate. Nature, just like Tintern abbey, needs to be given
the time and careful observation to be understood and appreciated for what it is. We have seen this repeatedly in different
works from Lyrical Ballads. To understand nature, you must put yourself into it and see the details. Tintern abbey is not just some old
structure. It is in fact still a work of art. Nature has made it its own because Tintern abbey stands in a natural state of ruins. Now people
come to see it and hopefully look at the details of every stone and arch. Also, it is a part of nature because it is so isolated.
If people want to experience its wonder then they must go visit. They must take the time to learn. It isn't like every other piece of architecture that people
pass by daily. It has become appreciated for the beauty and history it still holds in its isolation. Just as Gilpin describes there are trees and land surrounding the Abbey. It is constantly a beautiful discovery to visitors who do wish to experience nature at its best.