7. Summary

The poem 'When I set out for Layonnesse' by Thomas Hardy revolves around the poet's journey to a church in Cornwall. He names the place as Layonnesse, which is a hundred miles away. The poet starts on a chill winter season when there is frost on leaves. He sets out on a journey to Layonnesse when his life is gloomy. He is lonesome that is brightened by starlight. He is also curious to know the end result of the journey. He believes that no prophet or wizard can ever foretell what his experience will be in Layonnesse. But when he returns from the church, his eyes glow with magic and his face radiates happiness and peace. He finally finds meaning to his life from the journey.