Discuss Wordsworth's theory of poetry. 9.12 QUESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY (MEG 102)

William Wordsworth's theory of poetry is outlined in his Preface to Lyrical Ballads, which was first published in 1798. The Preface is often considered to be a foundational document of the Romantic movement, as it articulated many of the key principles and themes that would come to define Romantic poetry. Here are some of the key aspects of Wordsworth's theory of poetry:

The language of poetry should be simple and direct: Wordsworth believed that poetry should be written in the language of ordinary people, and should avoid the complex and artificial language that was typical of much eighteenth-century poetry. He believed that poetry should use simple, direct language to express the emotions and experiences of the common people.

The importance of emotion and imagination: Wordsworth believed that poetry should express the emotions and experiences of the individual, and should use the imagination to create vivid and powerful images that would resonate with readers. He believed that poetry should be a source of emotional and imaginative experience for both the poet and the reader.

The importance of nature: Wordsworth believed that nature was a source of spiritual and emotional renewal, and that poetry should celebrate the beauty and power of the natural world. He believed that nature could inspire the imagination and help to connect people to their deepest emotions and experiences.

Poetry should be rooted in personal experience: Wordsworth believed that poetry should be grounded in the poet's own experiences and emotions, and should express the subjective, personal nature of human experience. He believed that poetry should be a means of exploring the inner life of the individual.

Poetry should be democratic: Wordsworth believed that poetry should be accessible to all people, regardless of their social status or education. He believed that poetry should be a means of connecting people to their deepest emotions and experiences, and should help to create a sense of common humanity among all people.

Overall, Wordsworth's theory of poetry emphasized the importance of simplicity, emotion, imagination, nature, personal experience, and democracy. His theory helped to define the Romantic movement and had a significant influence on the development of English poetry in the nineteenth century.