What, according to Wordsworth, are the characteristics and functions of a poet?
Preface to Lyrical Ballads is a notable literary work by William Wordsworth. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Preface to Lyrical Ballads.
Answer
What, according to Wordsworth, are the characteristics and functions of a poet?
Or, What instrumental roles does a poet have to play, according to Wordsworth? Discuss.
William Wordsworth (1770-1850) is one of the most remarkable Romantic poets. In his “Preface to Lyrical Ballads” (1800), he talks clearly about the characteristics and functions of a poet. He believed that a poet is not an ordinary person. A poet must feel more, understand more, and express more than others. The poet’s job is not just to write beautiful lines. His duty is to help people feel truth and beauty. Wordsworth showed that poetry is not just about style. Instead, it is about the heart, mind, and deep feelings of life.
Feels More Deeply: Wordsworth said a poet must feel more deeply than others. A poet should have a soft and sensitive heart. He should feel happiness, sorrow, love, and nature more deeply. When most people forget their feelings, a poet remembers and keeps them alive. This deep feeling helps the poet understand others better. These strong emotions become the soul of the poet’s writing. Without deep feeling, poetry becomes dry and lifeless. So, emotion is the first and most important quality of a true poet. The author says,
“So that it will be the wish of the Poet to bring his feelings near to those of the persons whose feelings he describes.”
Thinks Clearly and Calmly: Along with feelings, a poet must also think clearly. Wordsworth believed that true poetry is born when strong feelings are remembered in peace. A poet does not just write in excitement. He waits, remembers the feeling, and then writes it with calm thought. This balance of heart and mind makes the poetry true and powerful. So, emotion and thought must work together in the poet’s mind.
Understands Human Life: According to Wordsworth, a poet understands human life better than others. He can see beauty in simple things. He notices what others ignore. A poet watches how people feel, live, and change. He usesUnlock this study guide now