"Decoding Wordsworth: The Essence of Poetry Through the Lens of Romanticism"

This blog is a part of a  task given by Dr. Dilip Barad Sir of a Bridge Course: 'Wordsworth's Preface' . 

• Exploring Wordsworth’s Poetic Philosophy: A Deeper Dive. 

William Wordsworth, a towering figure in the Romantic movement, reshaped the landscape of English poetry with his revolutionary ideas. His "Preface to Lyrical Ballads" serves as a cornerstone for understanding his vision of poetry, diction, and the role of the poet.

 In this blog post, we’ll delve into Wordsworth’s perspectives, exploring his views on what defines a poet, the nature of poetic diction, and the essence of poetry itself.

• Why does Wordsworth ask 'what is a poet' rather then 'who is a poet'? 

Wordsworth’s decision to ask "What is a poet?" instead of "Who is a poet?" reflects his emphasis on the intrinsic nature of poetry rather than the characteristics of individual poets. By focusing on "What," Wordsworth seeks to define the essential qualities and purpose of poetry. 

Poet differs in a degree, has greater knowledge of human nature through these emotions, observations, sensibilities, and we can say he has a better knowledge on human nature. 

Poet rejoice more then the ordinary people. His participation in the essence of life is much more than ordinary human being. He is habitually impelled to create volition, passions, situations where they themselves do not exists. 

This approach is less about identifying specific poets and more about understanding the core attributes that make someone a poet. Wordsworth is interested in the universal aspects of poetry that transcend individual identity, aiming to uncover the fundamental nature and impact of poetry on society.

• What Is Poetic Diction, and What Type Does Wordsworth Suggest?

Poetic diction:  In general it means choice of words. It refers to the language and style used in poetry, which often diverges from everyday speech to achieve artistic effects. 

Wordsworth challenges the elaborate and artificial diction of his predecessors, advocating instead for a simpler, more natural language. He believes that poetry should employ the language of ordinary people to convey emotions and ideas more authentically. According to Wordsworth, the use of familiar, accessible language helps to bridge the gap between the poet and the reader, making the emotional and thematic content of poetry more relatable and impactful.

Controversial aspect of Wordsworth's poetic diction. 

His friend Coleridge  raised controversy first on this. Often we find that Wordsworth himself does not strictly adhered to that kind of diction in his own poems. Like in #Michael A Pastoral Poem. 

• How Does Wordsworth Define Poetry?

Wordsworth definition of poetry :"The spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquility."

This definition highlights two key aspects of poetry according to Wordsworth: the initial surge of intense emotion and the reflective process that follows. Poetry, in Wordsworth’s view, begins with a powerful emotional experience that is later contemplated and expressed with calm deliberation. This process transforms raw feelings into artful expression, underscoring the idea that poetry is both an immediate and a thoughtful creation.

•Analyzing Wordsworth’s Poetic Creed:

Wordsworth’s poetic creed is rooted in the belief that poetry should arise from genuine human experiences and emotions. His approach stands in contrast to the formal, ornate style that dominated his time. By advocating for poetry that emerges from personal, profound feelings and is articulated in accessible language, Wordsworth seeks to make poetry more sincere and engaging. This philosophy aims to connect deeply with readers, reflecting their own experiences and emotions through the poet’s lens.

• Wordsworth’s Views on Poetic Diction:

In his "Preface," Wordsworth critiques the poetic diction of his predecessors, noting that it often strays from natural language and becomes overly complex. He states, "A language was thus insensibly produced, differing materially from the real language of men in any situation." Wordsworth argues that such artificial language distances poetry from the real experiences of its readers. Instead, he advocates for a more natural diction that reflects everyday speech, making poetry more grounded and accessible. This approach aligns with his belief that poetry should be a true representation of human experience.

• The Poet as “A Man Speaking to Men. ”

Wordsworth describes the poet as "a man speaking to men: a man, it is true, endowed with more lively sensibility, more enthusiasm and tenderness." This portrayal emphasizes the poet’s role as a communicator of deep and universal emotions. According to Wordsworth, poets possess an enhanced sensitivity and empathy that allow them to connect more profoundly with their audience. This heightened emotional awareness enables poets to articulate experiences and truths that resonate deeply with others, bridging the gap between personal and collective understanding.

• The Poet’s Greater Knowledge of Human Nature:

Wordsworth asserts that "A poet has a greater knowledge of human nature, and a more comprehensive soul, than one supposed to be common among mankind." This view highlights Wordsworth’s belief that poets have an exceptional understanding of human emotions and experiences. Poets, through their heightened sensitivity, can offer insights and perspectives that are often beyond the reach of ordinary people. This broader and deeper understanding allows poets to explore and express complex emotional states and universal themes with greater depth and clarity.

• Spontaneous Overflow of Powerful Feelings:

Wordsworth famously states, "For all good poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings." This concept is central to his definition of poetry, emphasizing that true poetry arises from intense and genuine emotions. According to Wordsworth, the most effective poetry comes from an immediate, unfiltered expression of feelings, which is then refined through reflection. This spontaneous overflow of emotion, when carefully crafted, results in poetry that is both heartfelt and resonant.

Conclusion:

William Wordsworth’s poetic philosophy represents a profound shift in how poetry is understood and created. By advocating for poetry rooted in genuine emotion and expressed through accessible language, Wordsworth redefined the role of the poet and the nature of poetic expression. His ideas continue to resonate, influencing how we approach and appreciate poetry today. Through his emphasis on authenticity and emotional depth, Wordsworth’s vision remains a cornerstone of literary analysis and creative writing.