His face when he repeats his verses hath its ancient glory, an Arch angel a little damaged:Coleridge is absent but 4 miles, & the neighbourhood of such a man is as exciting as the presence of 50 ordinary Persons.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- When Coleridge recites, his presence feels ancient and angelic, and even a crowd of ordinary people seems exciting compared to his absence.
- In plain terms
- His poetic presence is powerful, making ordinary gatherings seem lively.
- What can you take from it?
- A charismatic figure can elevate ordinary moments.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does charisma affect group dynamics?
- Can ordinary people become inspiring?
Another view
The claim about ordinary people may be hyperbolic.
More from Samuel Taylor Coleridge
The genius of Coleridge is like a sunken treasure ship, and Coleridge a diver too timid and lazy to bring its riches to the surface.
Permalink to quote #179 He was the first poet I ever knew. His genius at that time had angelic wings, and fed on manna. He talked on for ever; and you wished him to talk on for ever. …
Permalink to quote #178 The author of Biographia Literaria was already a ruined man. Sometimes, however, to be a 'ruined man' is itself a vocation.
Permalink to quote #177
Related quotes
A fair woman shall not only command without authority but persuade without speaking.
Philip SidneyPhilip Sidney quote #4 That's my idol, Elvis Presley. If you went to my house, you'd see pictures all over of Elvis. He's just the greatest entertainer that ever lived. And I think i…
Elvis PresleyElvis Presley quote #42 When I see my best friend coming I do not say to myself 'How am I going to manage propagandizing him?'
Charles PeguyCharles Peguy quote #5