That willing suspension of disbelief for the moment, which constitutes poetic faith

That willing suspension of disbelief for the moment, which constitutes poetic faith

Samuel Taylor Coleridge, a prominent English poet and philosopher, coined the term "willing suspension of disbelief" in his Biographia Literaria to describe the reader's ability to temporarily set aside their skepticism and immerse themselves in the world created by a work of literature. This concept is essential in understanding Coleridge's approach to poetry and the power of imagination in his work.

Coleridge believed that poetry had the ability to transport readers to a different realm, where they could experience emotions and ideas that were not bound by the constraints of reality. In order to fully appreciate and engage with a poem, the reader must be willing to suspend their disbelief and accept the fantastical elements presented to them. This act of poetic faith allows the reader to enter into a state of heightened imagination, where they can explore new perspectives and truths that may not be readily apparent in the everyday world.

One of Coleridge's most famous poems, "Kubla Khan," exemplifies the concept of the willing suspension of disbelief. In this poem, Coleridge describes a dream-like vision of the palace of Kubla Khan, a Mongolian emperor. The vivid imagery and fantastical elements in the poem invite the reader to enter into a world of mystery and wonder, where reality and imagination blur together. By suspending their disbelief, readers can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and complexity of Coleridge's vision, allowing them to experience the poem on a deeper level.

Coleridge's emphasis on the willing suspension of disbelief reflects his belief in the transformative power of poetry. By engaging with a poem in this way, readers can open themselves up to new ideas and emotions, expanding their understanding of the world around them. In essence, the act of poetic faith allows readers to transcend the limitations of reality and connect with the deeper truths and mysteries of existence.

Overall, Coleridge's concept of the willing suspension of disbelief highlights the importance of imagination and creativity in the experience of poetry. By embracing this concept, readers can unlock the full potential of a poem and engage with it in a way that is both enriching and enlightening.