Coleridge believed that meter, rhythm, and imaginative language distinguished poetry from prose.
In Biographia Literaria (1817), he argued that:
Meter and Rhythm – Poetry is defined by its use of metrical arrangement, which gives it a musical quality that prose lacks. He believed that rhythm enhances emotional expression and makes poetry more powerful.
Imaginative Language – Unlike prose, which primarily conveys information, poetry uses imagination, figurative language, and symbolism to evoke deeper meanings and emotions.
The Poet’s Role – The poet transforms ordinary language through creative expression, making it more elevated, refined, and meaningful than everyday speech.
Unity of Sound and Sense – In poetry, form and content are inseparable. The structure, rhythm, and diction work together to enhance meaning, whereas prose focuses mainly on direct communication.
