In Tintern Abbey, Wordsworth reflects on how his relationship with nature has changed over time. As a young man, he experienced nature with a "coarser pleasure", meaning he was drawn to its beauty and excitement in a more physical, instinctive way. However, he lacked the deep spiritual and philosophical connection he has now developed.
He acknowledges this change in the following lines:
"That time is past,
And all its aching joys are now no more,
And all its dizzy raptures."
Now, as an older and more reflective man, he finds deeper meaning and wisdom in nature, understanding its spiritual and moral influence on the human soul.