Question

In Chapter 14, Coleridge critiques Wordsworth’s focus on:

• A. Rustic life and ordinary language
• B. Supernatural themes
• C. Classical forms of poetry
• D. Free verse

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Rustic life and ordinary language

In Chapter 14 of "Biographia Literaria," Coleridge primarily criticizes Wordsworth's emphasis on using the language of "rustic life" and "ordinary language" as the foundation for poetry, arguing that relying solely on such language limits the potential of poetic expression and can be inaccurate to the true complexity of human experience. 

Key points about Coleridge's critique:

• Not all rustics speak poetically:

  Coleridge argues that the language of everyday people, particularly those from rural backgrounds, is not inherently rich enough to carry the depth and complexity required for great poetry. 

• Need for imagination and elevated language:

  He believes that poets must use their imagination to elevate language beyond mere everyday speech to truly capture profound emotions and ideas. 

• Contradiction in Wordsworth's practice:

  Coleridge points out inconsistencies between Wordsworth's stated theory of using simple language and the actual language employed in some of his best poems.