The Pleasures of Memory

"The Pleasures of Memory" is a poem by Samuel Rogers. The poem begins with the description of an obscure village, and of the pleasing melancholy which it excites on being revisited by the poet after a long absence. This mixed sensation is an effect of the Memory. The author looks at some of the things that leave a joyful collection of pleasant memories, from encounters with wonderful people to beautiful art and music, and many others. He seeks to show how pleasant memories uplift the soul and can help one in their present moments to be motivated to achieve more.