Chapter II Summary and Analysis

Coleridge feels that when man has vivid ideas, there are endless ways to modify and combine them. These can be used to form a perfect poem or work of art. He quotes the works of Shakespeare in which he praises his rivals. Coleridge feels that it is natural to be jealous of rivals.

Coleridge notes how the language has changed from the days of Chaucer and Gower. Literature and poetry require less talent and information than do other trades. It is possible for writers to be libelers due to envy and malevolence but to be successful wit the public. Others are men of genius. Sensibility is part of genius.

Coleridge feels that his greatest fault is his indifference to public opinion. He is indifferent to praise and has little interest in the sale and profit of his works, even...