theory of diction

 

How does Coleridge criticize Wordsworth's theory of diction?

 

Ans. Coleridge is the first who criticizes Wordsworth's theory of language and exposes its many weaknesses.

(i) According to Wordsworth, the language of poetry should be a selection of language from the language of the humble rustics. But Coleridge argues after such a selection there would be no difference between the language of the rustics and that of any other man of commonsense.

 

(iii) Coleridge next points out that by allowing metre, Wordsworth has allowed a particular order and arrangement of words. If this particular order and arrangement is permitted, Coleridge argues, there is an essential difference between the language of prose and that of metrical composition.

 

(iii) Wordsworth rejects poetic diction and defends the use of metre. Coleridge says that the use of metre is as artificial as the use of poetic diction. So, if one rejects the one, the other cannot be defended.

 

(iv) Coleridge objects to Wordsworth's use of the word 'real'. Coleridge says, "Every man's language has, first, its individualities; secondly, the common properties of the class to which he belongs; and thirdly, words and phrases of universal use." So the word 'real' should be substituted by the word 'ordinary'.

 

(v) According to Coleridge, it is not correct that the best parts of our language are derived from Nature. The best words are abstract nouns and concepts which are derived from the reflective acts of the mind. "The language of rustics is curiously inexpressive. It would be putting the clock back. Instead of progression it would be retrogression."