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Causes Quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

“Poetry, even that of the loftiest, and seemingly, that of the wildest odes, [has] a logic of its own as severe as that of science; and more difficult, because more subtle, more complex, and dependent on more and more fugitive causes. In the truly great poets... there is a reason assignable, not…” quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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“Poetry, even that of the loftiest, and seemingly, that of the wildest odes, [has] a logic of its own as severe as that of science; and more difficult, because more subtle, more complex, and dependent on more and more fugitive causes. In the truly great poets... there is a reason assignable, not only for every word, but for the position of every word.”

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

About This Quote

Source Poetry: Biographia Literaria, 1817

Poetry follows its own rigorous logic, often more subtle and complex than scientific reasoning, assigning purpose to each word and its placement.

In simple terms: Poetry has a hidden, precise structure.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate the craft behind poetic choices.

Themes

art language structure creativity

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

analytical educational

When to use this quote

  • writing poetry
  • literary analysis
  • teaching literature
  • creative writing workshops

Key Concepts

aesthetic theory semiotics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden rules guide a poet’s word choice?
  • How does structure affect emotional impact?
A Different Perspective

Poetic logic can be elusive, making interpretation subjective.

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