Samuel Taylor Coleridge 
Christabel & Kubla Khan 
A Vision in a Dream

Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s ‘Christabel & Kubla Khan’ is a collection of two deeply mystical and hauntingly beautiful poems that showcase the author’s unique blend of gothic romance and imaginative storytelling. ‘Christabel’ tells the tale of a young maiden encountering supernatural forces in a dark forest, interweaving themes of innocence, seduction, and the unknown. On the other hand, ‘Kubla Khan’ paints a vivid and surreal picture of a mythical palace and its surroundings, delving into themes of creativity, power, and the subconscious mind. Coleridge’s use of vivid imagery, symbolic language, and dreamlike narratives place these poems within the context of Romantic literature, embodying the era’s fascination with the supernatural and the unknown. It is no wonder that these timeless works continue to captivate readers with their mysterious and ethereal allure. Samuel Taylor Coleridge, a prominent figure in the Romantic movement, was known for his exploration of the human psyche and the transcendent power of imagination. His own struggles with opium addiction and spiritual questioning likely influenced the dreamlike quality and introspective nature of ‘Christabel & Kubla Khan.’ Readers who appreciate poetic exploration of the supernatural and the depths of the human experience will find Coleridge’s collection to be a mesmerizing and thought-provoking read that lingers in the mind long after the final page.

Tentang Penulis

Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) was an eminent English poet, critic, philosopher, and theologian, who, together with his friend William Wordsworth, was a founding figure of the Romantic Movement in England. Perhaps his most famous contributions to English literature are the poems ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ and ‘Kubla Khan, ‘ the latter written in a prophetic reverie but published much later, as well as the unfinished ‘Christabel, ‘ which is recognized for its supernatural themes and innovative use of meter. Coleridge’s masterful and vivid use of imagery and exploration of the supernatural have distinguished his work from that of his contemporaries. His literary style is marked by a rich and intense poetic sensibility, potent imagination, and deep philosophical and theological insights, often reflecting his struggle with opium addiction. Coleridge’s criticism in ‘Biographia Literaria, ‘ a collection of his thoughts on literature, poetics, and philosophy, has been highly influential, establishing his reputation as one of the most important critics in English literature. His work not only helped to shape the literature of his own time but has continued to resonate throughout the centuries, influencing a diverse array of poets and thinkers. Despite battling personal demons, Coleridge’s profound impact on literature makes him one of the iconic figures of the Romantic era and a lasting inspiration in the literary world.