Mont Blanc: Lines Written in the Vale of Chamouni

There are numerous references throughout the poem either to circles specifically or to cyclical processes. For example, Line 57 describes how the power of sleep “circles” an individual. Line 126 also references the “circling air.” A circle consists of a single line with no beginning and no end. It is continuous and perpetual. Even when circles are not specifically stated, there are allusions made to the cycle of life itself as it moves along its circular, endless path. This circle of birth, death, and rejuvenation is essential to all ecosystems: “The cycle of life starts at birth—new life—and travels through periods of growth until death and decay. This natural cycle exists in plants, humans, and animals. Microbes break down organic matter into the building blocks of life, so they are available for rebirth and regrowth” (“The Cycle of Life." microbz, 2022.). In Shelley’s poem, Line 95 specifically evokes this cycle as well, as the speaker describes how all things “[a]re born and die; revolve, subside, and swell.” This cycle is essential to allow the universe to continue into “deep eternity” (Line 29).