“When Emotion Becomes Art: Wordsworth’s Idea of Poetry”

This blog is written as part of an academic assignment assigned by Prof. Dr. Dilip Barad, focusing on William Wordsworth’s revolutionary ideas about poetry and the role of the poet, as expressed in his Preface to Lyrical Ballads. Wordsworth redefined poetry in the Romantic Age by questioning the traditional notions of poetic diction and by placing emphasis on emotion, simplicity, and human experience. His central questions—“What is a poet?” and “What is poetry?”—go beyond personal identity to address the essence of poetic creation itself.

The discussion explores Wordsworth’s definition of poetry as “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings,” his belief in the poet as “a man speaking to men,” and his rejection of artificial poetic diction in favor of the real language of common people. By analyzing his views on sensibility, diction, and the moral role of the poet, this blog highlights how Wordsworth’s poetic philosophy became a cornerstone of Romantic literature.

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Here is the Overview of the Questions

1) Why does Wordsworth ask "What is a poet?" rather than "Who is a poet?"

Wordsworth asks “What is a poet?” rather than “Who is a poet?” because his concern in the Preface to Lyrical Ballads is not with identifying individuals but with defining the nature, function, and essence of a poet.

“Who” would restrict the answer to names or personalities—Shakespeare, Milton, etc.—which is historical and biographical.
“What” shifts the question to a philosophical and universal level, focusing on the qualities, sensibilities, and role of a poet in society.

Wordsworth’s question “What is a poet?” is inseparable from his definition of poetry.

When he defines poetry as “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings, recollected in tranquility,” he makes it clear that poetry originates in emotion, imagination, and reflection rather than technical skill or aristocratic style.
Therefore, a poet is not simply someone who writes verses, but one who has a heightened capacity to feel, reflect, and communicate these emotions in a universal, accessible language.
The poet is both ordinary and extraordinary: ordinary because he shares human passions (“a man speaking to men”), extraordinary because he feels them more vividly and can shape them into lasting artistic expression.

From a broader perspective:

Poet as a universal figure – Wordsworth treats the poet not as a person but as a representative of heightened human sensibility, someone who feels emotions more deeply and expresses them in a way that resonates with all.
Poet’s role – He sees the poet as “a man speaking to men,” who shares human passions but has a greater ability to translate them into language that touches others.
Beyond personality – By asking what, Wordsworth avoids limiting poetry to great names and instead defines the poet by imagination, sympathy, and emotional power.
Connection with poetic diction – Since Wordsworth wanted to reform poetry by rejecting artificial diction, defining what a poet is was crucial: the poet should use simple, natural language and communicate universal truths.
Philosophical necessity – The Romantic movement aimed at redefining art. Thus, Wordsworth sought an ontological definition of the poet, not a biographical one.

In essence, Wordsworth’s “What is a poet?” is the necessary foundation for his definition of poetry. The two together establish his Romantic creed: poetry is authentic emotion, and the poet is the one most capable of transforming that emotion into universal truth.

2) What is poetic diction, and what type of poetic diction does Wordsworth suggest in his ?

Poetic Diction

Refers to the choice and use of words in poetry, often characterized by a certain style, tone, and level of formality. It distinguishes poetic language from everyday speech, usually involving elevated or figurative language, rhythm, and sometimes specific forms or structures that contribute to the aesthetic and emotional effect of a poem.

Wordsworth’s View on Poetic Diction:

In his Preface to Lyrical Ballads (1800), William Wordsworth advocated for a shift in poetic diction, departing from the elaborate and artificial language of the neoclassical poets like Pope and Dryden. He believed that poetry should be written in "the language of men", but "refined" and "elevated" in expression. Wordsworth’s ideal poetic diction was:

Simple and Natural: He argued that the language of poetry should reflect the everyday speech of common people, particularly the rural poor, whose lives were more connected to nature. He believed that nature was the ultimate teacher, and the language of poetry should be grounded in natural, unadorned speech.
Emotionally Expressive: Wordsworth felt that the poet's role was to evoke deep emotion through the simplicity of language, focusing on feelings rather than on intellectual or rhetorical flourishes.
Accessible and Universal: While the language should be simple, it should still carry universal meanings, making poetry relatable to all, not just the elite. Wordsworth’s diction was meant to resonate with common human experiences, such as love, loss, or wonder, as felt by ordinary people.
Avoidance of Artificial Flourishes: Wordsworth critiqued the elaborate and overly stylized language of previous poets, which he saw as distancing poetry from the true experience of life. He believed that poetry should not depend on forced metaphors or excessive ornamentation, as it weakened the connection between the poem and the reader's emotions.

Example:

In Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey, Wordsworth uses language that is simple yet deeply expressive:

"And I have felt
A presence that disturbs me with the joy
Of elevated thoughts; a sense sublime
Of something far more deeply interfused,
Whose dwelling is the light of setting suns."

Here, Wordsworth’s diction is straightforward and accessible but still rich in emotion and meaning, emphasizing how nature can evoke a profound sense of peace and connection.

In essence, Wordsworth’s poetic diction suggests that poetry should speak in the voice of the common person, using familiar, accessible language that is still able to express profound feelings and thoughts. This approach was a departure from the complexity and artificiality of the poetic diction of the earlier 18th century, marking an important shift toward Romanticism.

3) How does Wordsworth define poetry? Discuss this definition in relation to his poetic philosophy.

In his Preface to Lyrical Ballads, Wordsworth defines poetry as "the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings," which arises from the emotion recollected in tranquility. This definition presents poetry as an expression of deep, authentic emotion that is not mere intellectual activity or artifice.

Key Aspects of Wordsworth’s Definition of Poetry:

Spontaneous Overflow of Emotion:
- For Wordsworth, poetry is born out of strong feelings, often experienced in the presence of nature or profound personal moments. He emphasizes that the initial impulse of poetry is spontaneous—an emotional surge that the poet captures in the moment.
- However, it is not just random emotion; it is emotion recollected in tranquility. This means that while emotions are intense when experienced, the poet later reflects upon them in calmness, allowing a clearer, more thoughtful expression.
Emotion as a Central Element:
- Wordsworth places emotion at the heart of poetry, viewing it as a way to express deep, personal feelings and universal human experiences. The poet channels raw emotion into words, refining and shaping it to communicate profound insights.
Connection with Nature:
- Nature is central to Wordsworth’s poetic philosophy. He sees it as a catalyst for the powerful emotions that lead to poetry. In his view, nature is a living, spiritual presence, and the poet’s response to nature’s beauty and power becomes the basis for the poetic creation.
- For Wordsworth, nature is both a teacher and a source of emotional depth, which helps the poet find clarity and wisdom. His famous line, "The child is father of the man," captures the idea that childhood experiences in nature shape the adult poet’s emotions and insights.
The Role of the Poet:
- The poet is seen as someone who transforms ordinary life into something extraordinary. Wordsworth emphasized that poetry should be rooted in the common experiences of everyday people, especially the rural poor, whose lives were closely tied to nature.
- The poet’s task is not merely to record experiences but to interpret and elevate them, offering deeper insights that resonate with universal human emotions. Wordsworth argued that poetry should speak to both the heart and the intellect.
Accessibility and Simplicity:
- In line with his views on poetic diction, Wordsworth believes that poetry should be accessible. It should not be confined to an intellectual or elite class but should be something that everyone can relate to. His poetry is often written in simple, clear language, aiming to reach a broad audience and evoke deep emotional responses.

Relation to His Poetic Philosophy:

Wordsworth’s definition of poetry ties directly into his broader Romantic philosophy, which emphasized:

Emotion over reason: Wordsworth's definition underscores the Romantic belief in the primacy of feeling over intellectual or logical thinking. He rejected the Neoclassical emphasis on reason and formal rules, advocating instead for a more personal, emotional response to the world.
The healing power of nature: Nature is not just a backdrop for poetry but a key source of inspiration, emotion, and wisdom. Wordsworth often claimed that engaging with nature could restore the poet’s emotional and spiritual well-being, aligning with his belief that poetry is a product of deep emotional connection with the natural world.
Rejection of artificiality: Wordsworth’s focus on spontaneous emotion and simplicity in poetic language directly opposes the formal, artificial diction favored by earlier poets. He argued that true poetry should come from the natural, unrefined expressions of the common person, which resonate with universal human emotions.

Example:

In poems like I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud, Wordsworth embodies his definition of poetry. The poet’s initial, spontaneous emotion, inspired by the sight of daffodils, is later recollected and transformed into a meditative reflection on the lasting power of that joy:

"For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude."

In this passage, the overflow of emotion experienced in nature is later recollected in tranquility, becoming a source of spiritual solace for the poet.

4) Analyze the poem in the context of Wordsworth's poetic creed.

To analyze a poem of Wordsworth (for example “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” or “Tintern Abbey”) in the context of his poetic creed as set out in the Preface to Lyrical Ballads, we need to see how his main principles—simplicity of language, focus on nature, emotion, and universality—are reflected.

1. Choice of Subject Matter

Wordsworth insisted that poetry should be drawn from ordinary life and common experiences, especially those of rustic people, because they live closer to nature and human feelings.

In “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”, the subject is simple: the poet’s encounter with a field of daffodils.
In “Tintern Abbey”, the subject is a personal return to a familiar natural landscape.
These are ordinary experiences elevated into profound reflections, fulfilling Wordsworth’s idea of finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.

2. Nature as a Central Theme

According to Wordsworth, nature is not just scenery but a living presence that nurtures human emotions and provides spiritual insight.

In “Tintern Abbey”, nature consoles, uplifts, and shapes the poet’s moral being.
In “Daffodils”, the flowers become a source of lasting joy that the poet recollects in solitude.
This aligns with his belief that poetry should capture man’s emotional bond with nature.

3. Emotion Recollected in Tranquility

Wordsworth’s famous definition of poetry as “emotion recollected in tranquility” is evident in both poems:

The joy of seeing daffodils is later recalled in solitude, turning a fleeting moment into enduring happiness.
The memories of the Wye Valley in “Tintern Abbey” are recollected years later, bringing spiritual renewal.
Thus, poetry is not merely the recording of an instant emotion, but the meditative reworking of experience into insight.

4. Simplicity of Language (Poetic Diction)

Wordsworth rejected artificial, ornate diction. His poems use simple, natural words, close to ordinary speech but refined with rhythm and imagination.

For instance, “A host, of golden daffodils” is vivid yet plain, not overburdened with classical imagery.
In “Tintern Abbey”, the language is reflective and sincere, not elevated artificially.
This shows his commitment to making poetry accessible and genuine.

5. Universality of Human Experience

Wordsworth believed poetry should reveal universal truths about human life and emotions.

The joy of nature (“Daffodils”) or the spiritual renewal from memory (“Tintern Abbey”) are not just personal—they reflect emotions anyone can feel.
This universality connects the poet’s individual feelings to the shared human condition.

5) Wordsworth states, “A language was thus insensibly produced, differing materially from the real language of men in any situation.” Explanation and illustration with reference to my reading of Wordsworth’s views on poetic diction.

Wordsworth, in his Preface to Lyrical Ballads (1800), criticizes the poetic diction of 18th-century poetry (especially poets like Pope and Dryden). By poetic diction he meant the artificial, ornamental language that had developed over time, full of inflated expressions, stock phrases, and classical references.

When he says, “A language was thus insensibly produced, differing materially from the real language of men in any situation,” he means:

Poets had slowly created a special, unnatural style of writing poetry.
This “poetic language” was not the actual language spoken by people in real life.
It became remote, artificial, and disconnected from genuine human feelings and experiences.

Wordsworth’s Views on Poetic Diction

Criticism of Artificiality
- He believed earlier poets used too many decorative words, elaborate metaphors, and elevated diction that did not reflect real human speech.
- Example: Describing death as “the sable shroud of mortality’s eternal sleep” instead of simply saying “death.”
Return to the Language of Common Men
- Wordsworth argued poetry should be written in a language “really used by men,” especially rural folk, because their speech was closer to natural passions and truth.
Refinement, Not Crudity
- He did not mean poetry should be a copy of everyday talk. Instead, ordinary language should be purified, selected, and elevated by the poet’s imagination.
Purpose
- By using natural language, poetry would become more sincere, emotional, and universally accessible, instead of being limited to a learned elite.

Illustration from Wordsworth’s Poetry

In “We Are Seven”, the dialogue between the poet and a rustic child is simple and direct, yet it expresses profound truths about life and death.
In “Michael”, the story of a humble shepherd is told in plain, unornamented words, but it evokes deep pathos and dignity.
In “Daffodils”, the diction is simple (“A host of golden daffodils”) but not crude—clear, musical, and emotionally powerful.

6) Wordsworth describes a poet as "a man speaking to men: a man, it is true, endowed with more lively sensibility, more enthusiasm and tenderness.” Explanation this with reference to my reading of Wordsworth’s views in the Lyrical Ballads.

In the Preface to Lyrical Ballads (1800), Wordsworth describes the poet as “a man speaking to men: a man, it is true, endowed with more lively sensibility, more enthusiasm and tenderness.”

By this, Wordsworth rejects the idea of the poet as a remote genius writing in lofty, artificial language. Instead, he presents the poet as an ordinary human being, but one who has deeper sensitivity and imagination that allow him to perceive, feel, and express more intensely than others.

Wordsworth’s Views on the Poet

“A man speaking to men”
- The poet is not separate from society but one among common people.
- His task is to communicate in a natural, human language, not in an artificial “poetic diction.”
- Poetry, therefore, becomes accessible and grounded in real human experience.
Heightened Sensibility
- While he is an ordinary man, the poet is gifted with “more lively sensibility”—he feels emotions more deeply than most people.
- This intensity enables him to capture and reflect on experiences that others might overlook.
More Enthusiasm and Tenderness
- The poet is more emotionally responsive, compassionate, and empathetic.
- He can enter into the feelings of others and represent universal human emotions through his own experiences.
Mediation Between Nature and Humanity
- For Wordsworth, the poet interprets the relationship between man and nature.
- He observes natural and human life with extraordinary sensitivity and communicates their deeper truths to others.
Universal Voice
- The poet’s role is to take individual emotions and experiences and transform them into expressions of universal significance, making poetry resonate with all readers.

Illustration from Wordsworth’s Poetry

In “Michael”, the poet speaks in the voice of an ordinary shepherd’s life, showing how love, loss, and sacrifice are universal human emotions.
In “We Are Seven”, the poet uses the simple conversation with a child to reveal profound truths about life and death.
In “Tintern Abbey”, he transforms personal memory into universal reflections on nature’s spiritual and moral power.

Conclusion

Wordsworth’s Preface to Lyrical Ballads reshaped English poetry by rejecting the artificial diction of the 18th century and insisting on the language of common men, purified by imagination. For him, poetry is the “spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings, recollected in tranquility”, often inspired by a deep bond with nature, which he saw as a moral and spiritual guide. The poet, in this vision, is not a lofty figure but “a man speaking to men,” distinguished only by greater sensitivity, tenderness, and imagination. Through simplicity, sincerity, and universality, Wordsworth made poetry democratic—bringing profound truths of human life and nature within the reach of all.