Question

The subject matter of poetry, according to Wordsworth, should focus on:

• A. Noble themes
• B. Everyday life and nature
• C. Abstract philosophy
• D. The supernatural

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Everyday life and nature

• According to William Wordsworth, the subject matter of poetry should focus on the ordinary events of life, human emotions, and the natural world.

• He believed that poetry should be written in the language of common people, rather than the elevated language of classical poetry. 

• Wordsworth believed that poetry should be simple and accessible to readers. He thought that poetry written in ordinary language could better explore human nature and reveal truth. 

• Wordsworth believed that poetry should be close to the reader's lived experience. He thought that poetry written in jargon or lofty language would alienate the reader. 

• Wordsworth believed that poetry should focus on humble, rural life. He thought that this would allow the essential human passions to be expressed more simply and accurately. 

• Wordsworth believed that poetry should communicate the primary laws of human nature. He thought that this would offer readers a moral elevation rather than idle pleasure.