Do you think remoteness and strangeness constitute the essence of Coleridge's romanticism in 'Kubla Khan'? (MEG 102) (COLERIDGE: KUBLA KHAN)

Remoteness and strangeness are certainly important elements of Coleridge's romanticism in "Kubla Khan," but they are not necessarily the essence of his romanticism.

In the poem, Coleridge creates a vivid and fantastical landscape that is populated by exotic and supernatural creatures, such as the "ancestral voices prophesying war" and the "woman wailing for her demon-lover." These images are indeed remote and strange, and they contribute to the dreamlike atmosphere of the poem.

However, there are other elements of Coleridge's romanticism in "Kubla Khan" that are equally important. For example, the poem is characterized by a sense of mystery and wonder, as the speaker is transported to a magical realm that is beyond the ordinary world. This sense of transcendence is a hallmark of romanticism, as it represents a desire to escape from the constraints of everyday life and to explore the deeper dimensions of human experience.

Furthermore, the poem is characterized by a deep appreciation for nature and its power to inspire awe and wonder. Coleridge was a keen observer of the natural world, and his poetry often reflects his fascination with the beauty and complexity of the natural environment. In "Kubla Khan," the garden and river can be seen as symbols of the natural world, which are imbued with a sense of magic and enchantment.

Overall, while remoteness and strangeness are certainly important elements of Coleridge's romanticism in "Kubla Khan," they are not the only or even the most essential aspects of the poem. The sense of mystery and wonder, the appreciation for nature, and the desire for transcendence are also key elements of Coleridge's romanticism, and they contribute to the enduring power and beauty of the poem.