Visits are insatiable devourers of time, and fit only for those who, if they did not that, would do nothing

Visits are insatiable devourers of time, and fit only for those who, if they did not that, would do nothing

William Cowper, a renowned English poet and hymnodist, was known for his introspective and contemplative works that often reflected his struggles with mental illness and his deep faith. In his quote, "Visits are insatiable devourers of time, and fit only for those who, if they did not that, would do nothing," Cowper captures the essence of his own personality and preferences when it came to social interactions.

Cowper was a man who valued solitude and introspection, finding solace in his own thoughts and the beauty of nature. He often struggled with social interactions and found them to be draining and time-consuming. For him, visits were a necessary evil, something that had to be endured rather than enjoyed. He believed that those who were truly content with themselves and their own company would not feel the need to constantly seek out the company of others.

In his poem "The Task," Cowper writes about the joys of solitude and the peace that can be found in quiet contemplation. He describes the simple pleasures of nature and the beauty of the world around him, finding solace in the sounds of birdsong and the rustling of leaves. Cowper's love of nature and his deep connection to the natural world are evident in his writings, and it is clear that he found more fulfillment in the company of trees and flowers than in the company of other people.

Cowper's quote about visits being "insatiable devourers of time" speaks to his belief that social interactions can be draining and time-consuming, taking away from the things that truly matter to him. He valued his time alone, using it to reflect on his thoughts and emotions, and to find inspiration for his poetry. For Cowper, visits were a necessary evil, something that had to be endured in order to maintain social connections, but not something that brought him true joy or fulfillment.