WHY IS THE PREFACE TO LYRICAL BALLADS CONSIDERED AS THE CENTRAL WORK OF LITERARY THEORY IN THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY?
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The preface to "Lyrical Ballads" is considered as the central work of literary theory in the eighteenth century for several reasons. To understand why, let's break down the key points and elements of the preface:
1. Introduction of Romanticism: The preface, written by William Wordsworth, along with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, marks the beginning of the Romantic movement in English literature. It presents a new approach to poetic expression, emphasizing individual emotional experience, imagination, and a closer connection with nature.
2. Rejection of Neoclassical Poetry: The preface criticizes the prevailing neoclassical poetry of the time, which adhered to strict rules, focused on heroic themes, and lacked emotional depth. Wordsworth and Coleridge argued for a more natural and creative approach to poetry, breaking away from the rigid conventions of the neoclassical tradition.
3. Importance of Simplicity and Common Language: The preface emphasizes the use of plain and simple language, inspired by the speech and feelings of ordinary people. This departure from the ornate and artificial language of the neoclassical era aimed to make poetry more accessible and relatable to a wider audience.
4. Focus on Nature and Imagination: Wordsworth highlights the significance of nature as a powerful source of inspiration. He believes that immersing oneself in natural surroundings can elevate poetic imagination and evoke profound emotions. By exploring the relationship between humanity, nature, and the imagination, the preface introduced a new perspective and subject matter for poetry.
5. Experimental Elements: Wordsworth and Coleridge's preface promotes experimentation in poetry, encouraging innovative forms and themes. They introduced the concept of the "poetic diction," which emphasized the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings rather than relying solely on formal structures and poetic devices.
6. Reader-Writer Connection: The preface also emphasizes the importance of a genuine connection between the reader and the poet. Wordsworth suggests that poetry should speak directly to the emotions of the reader, guiding them to experience the same emotions felt by the poet. This interactive approach sought to engage the reader on a personal and intimate level.
Overall, the preface to "Lyrical Ballads" is considered central in eighteenth-century literary theory because it challenged established literary conventions, introduced a new poetic style and subject matter, and paved the way for the Romantic movement in English literature. It greatly influenced subsequent poets and had a profound impact on literary theory and practice in the years to come.