The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

Name: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge

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About This Book

An old sailor detains a wedding guest and recounts a harrowing sea voyage in which an albatross's arrival, and its later killing, bring supernatural retribution that leaves the ship stranded and the crew dead. The narrator endures extreme isolation, ghostly phenomena, and inner torment until a renewed perception of the natural world breaks the curse. Released yet compelled to wander, he must relate his experience as a form of penance. The poem unfolds in seven parts, using ballad rhythms, vivid maritime imagery, and supernatural symbolism to examine guilt, the consequences of violating nature, and the possibility of spiritual restoration through suffering and contrition.

About the Author

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) was an English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, best known for his contributions to the Romantic movement. His most famous work, "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," showcases his innovative use of language and exploration of complex themes such as nature and the human condition. Coleridge's writings often reflect his deep interest in the interplay between imagination and reality, as seen in his critical works like "Biographia Literaria," where he discusses the nature of poetry and the creative process. His influence extends beyond poetry into philosophy and theology, making him a pivotal figure in English literature.