Dora was William and Mary's daughter. She was born in 1804 and died 1847. She was their only surviving daughter and provided numerous amounts of inspiration to her father in his quest to write poetry. Dora suffered from Tuberculosis during most of her life, and her health was one of the reasons she remained at home with her parents until she married Edward Quillinan (against her father's wishes) at the age of 39. Dora was a person who formed intense and significant relationships with family and friends, hence the closeness with her parents, Dorothy, and her friends. After Dora's death, her parents buried her in the graveyard at Saint Oswald's Church in Grasmere. As tribute to their beloved daughter, William and Mary Planted a field of Daffodils near Rydal Mount in her honor. Although Rydal Mount remains in the possession of the family, Dora's field is maintained by the National Trust.
The headstone marking Dora's grave is a tribute to the love bestowed upon her by her parents, William and Mary, her husband, and her Aunt Dorothy. The carving of the lamb signifies the innocence they saw in her. The inscription attests to the spiritual belief that Dora attained the ultimate homecoming upon her death. The thought of one's family member going to heaven upon their death brings a bit of solace to their grief. |
Surprised by Joy
BY WILLIAM WORDSWORTH Surprised by joy—impatient as the Wind I turned to share the transport—Oh! with whom But Thee, long buried in the silent Tomb, That spot which no vicissitude can find? Love, faithful love, recalled thee to my mind— But how could I forget thee?—Through what power, Even for the least division of an hour, Have I been so beguiled as to be blind To my most grievous loss!—That thought’s return Was the worst pang that sorrow ever bore, Save one, one only, when I stood forlorn, Knowing my heart’s best treasure was no more; That neither present time, nor years unborn Could to my sight that heavenly face restore. (Poetry Foundation) |