Samuel Taylor Coleridge: 'Works of imagination should be written in very plain language; the more purely imaginative they are the more necessary it is to be plain.'

Works of imagination should be written in very plain language; the more purely imaginative they are the more necessary it is to be plain.

In his acclaimed quote, Samuel Taylor Coleridge puts forth the notion that works of imagination ought to be written in plain language. He suggests that the more purely imaginative a composition is, the more imperative it becomes to be straightforward in its expression. At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing, as one might assume that imaginative works should be rife with elaborate language and intricate descriptions. However, upon deeper reflection, Coleridge's words convey a profound insight into the power of simplicity in evoking and conveying the essence of the imaginative realm.Coleridge's quote emphasizes the importance of clarity in writing, particularly when it comes to works of imagination. By advocating for plain language, he implies that excessive embellishments and convoluted expressions can hinder rather than enhance the impact of the imaginative elements within a composition. Through simplicity, the imaginative ideas can shine more brightly, capturing the reader's attention and allowing them to delve deeper into the world being depicted.One possible interpretation of this quote lies in the idea that plain language acts as a bridge between the imaginative realm and the reader's understanding. A work that possesses vivid and purely imaginative concepts may feel distant and intangible, especially if it is conveyed through intricate and arcane language. However, by employing plain language, the writer can establish a familiar and accessible connection with the reader, making it easier for them to grasp and appreciate the imaginative elements at play.Moreover, the use of plain language in imaginative works can cultivate a sense of relatability. When readers encounter prose or poetry that appears less adorned, they can more readily connect with the emotions, ideas, and experiences portrayed. Plain language bypasses unnecessary barriers and invites readers to forge a personal relationship with the imaginative world within the text. By doing so, the readers themselves can become active participants, co-creators of the imaginative realm as they bring their own interpretations and experiences to the table.While Coleridge's quote sheds light on the benefits of employing plain language in imaginative works, it also raises a philosophical concept worth exploring: the paradoxical nature of simplicity and complexity. In the realm of art and literature, we often assume that complexity equates to depth and value. However, Coleridge's proposition challenges this assumption by suggesting that simplicity can be more impactful, or at least equally as valuable, in certain contexts.This idea resonates with the philosophical concept of minimalism, which advocates for stripping away unnecessary complexities and focusing on the essence of a particular art form. In literature, minimalism can be seen through authors like Ernest Hemingway, who employed sparse language to convey powerful emotions and create vivid imagery. In a similar vein, being plain in imaginative works allows the writer to distill the essence of their ideas, unburdened by linguistic frills, and thus evoking a stronger emotional response in the reader.In contrast, there are also instances where complex and ornate language can enhance the imaginative experience. Works such as the intricate poetry of Edgar Allan Poe or the fantastical prose of J.R.R. Tolkien often employ rich language to embolden their imaginative worlds. In these cases, the complexity of language serves as an essential tool in capturing the intricacies and nuances of the realms being depicted. Nonetheless, even in these instances, clarity remains crucial to ensure that readers can ultimately grasp the core essence and meaning of the work.In conclusion, Samuel Taylor Coleridge's quote encapsulates the significance of employing plain language in works of imagination. By avoiding unnecessary complexities and opting for simplicity, writers can forge a stronger connection with their audience, ensuring that the imaginative elements are both accessible and relatable. While complexity has its place, plain language often acts as a conduit that bridges the imaginative realm with the reader's understanding, resulting in a more profound and transformative experience. By exploring the paradoxical relationship between simplicity and complexity, we can appreciate the power of plain language and its ability to amplify the impact of imaginative works.