The Preface to Lyrical Ballads

The Preface to Lyrical Ballads, written by William Wordsworth, explains his vision for poetry. He advocates for capturing everyday life and genuine emotions, emphasizing simplicity and natural speech rather than formal, ornate language. Wordsworth believes poetry should connect deeply with ordinary people's experiences, making literature more accessible and relatable. He also discusses his artistic goals, such as focusing on common subjects and exploring human nature honestly. This preface marks a shift toward more personal, sincere poetry, seeing it as a means to inspire and uplift society through authentic expression.