Poet
Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772–1834) was a central figure in the Romantic movement and one of the most innovative poets of his time. His work often blended imagination with philosophical depth, tackling themes of nature, the supernatural, and the human psyche. Coleridge is perhaps best known for his masterpiece ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’, a haunting narrative poem that explores guilt, redemption, and man’s relationship with nature. Another iconic work, ‘Kubla Khan’, famously written after an opium-influenced dream, dazzles with vivid imagery and exotic landscapes.
Coleridge’s collaboration with fellow poet William Wordsworth resulted in the landmark collection Lyrical Ballads (1798), which helped launch the Romantic era in English literature. Beyond his poetry, Coleridge was a brilliant critic and philosopher, with works like Biographia Literaria reflecting his intellectual breadth. Despite lifelong struggles with health and addiction, Coleridge’s poetry continues to resonate, known for its emotional intensity, lyrical beauty, and exploration of the mystical. His legacy endures as one of English literature’s most influential voices.