W. H. Davies

What is this life if, full of care, Meaning: The poem asks what kind of life we have if worry leaves no time to notice beauty.

We have no time to stand and stare. Meaning: Davies suggests that constant busyness makes life poor.

No time to stand beneath the boughs Meaning: People should have time to pause under trees.

And stare as long as sheep or cows. Meaning: Animals already do this naturally and patiently.

No time to see, when woods we pass, Meaning: We should notice the woods when we pass through them.

Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass. Meaning: Even small hidden acts in nature deserve attention.

No time to see, in broad daylight, Meaning: Daylight can hold wonders if we truly look.

Streams full of stars, like skies at night. Meaning: The stream is compared to a night sky full of stars.

No time to turn at Beauty's glance, Meaning: Beauty can seem like a living person turning toward us.

And watch her feet, how they can dance. Meaning: The poet wants us to watch graceful movement, not rush past it.

No time to wait till her mouth can Meaning: Real attention takes patience.

Enrich that smile her eyes began. Meaning: A smile can deepen if we wait for it fully.

A poor life this if, full of care, Meaning: The poem returns to its original complaint.

We have no time to stand and stare. Meaning: Life becomes poor when care leaves no room for wonder.