Abstract
In the notebook entries of the 1790s, Coleridge devoted considerable attention to observing his children’s growth, particularly their early attempts at language and their relationship to nature. These musings on children deeply influence the conversation poems, particularly “Frost at Midnight” and the lesser known “The Nightingale: A Conversation Poem.” In this paper, I would like to explore the ways in which “The Nightingale” posits a complex philosophical and theological concept of communication: namely, that a child-like mind, which is pure, unself-conscious and full of wonderment can best understand nature as the spiritual language of God.
Original language | American English |
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Journal | Coleridge Bulletin |
Volume | 32 |
State | Published - 2008 |
Externally published | Yes |
EGS Disciplines
- American Literature
- Literature in English, North America