Composed At Clevedon, Somersetshire by Samuel Taylor Coleridge (Poem, Summary, & Analysis)

 

Composed At Clevedon, Somersetshire

by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

(Poem, Summary, & Analysis) 

Composed At Clevedon, Somersetshire

My pensive Sara, thy soft cheek reclined

Thus on mine arm, most soothing sweet it is

To sit beside our cot, our cot o'ergrown

With white-flowered jasmine and the broad-leaved myrtle

(Meet emblems they of innocence and love),

And watch the clouds that late were rich with light

Slow-sad'ning round, and mark the star of eve

Serenely brilliant (such should wisdom be)

Shine opposite! How exquisite the scents

Snatched from yon bean-field! And the world so hushed!

The stilly murmur of the distant sea

Tells us of silence. And that simplest lute

Placed lengthways in the clasping casement-hark

How by desultory breeze caressed!

Like some coy maid half-yielding to her lover,

It pours such sweet upbraidings as must needs

Tempt to repeat the wrong. And now its strings

Boldlier swept, the long sequacious notes

Over delicious surges sink and rise,

Such a soft floating witchery of sound

As twilight elfins make when they at eve

Voyage on gentle gales from fairyland,

Where melodies round honey-dropping flowers

Footless and wild, like birds of paradise,

Nor pause nor perch, hov'ring on untamed wing.

And thus, my love, as on the midway slope

Of yonder hill I stretch my limbs at noon,

Whilst through my half-closed eyelids I behold

The sunbeams dance, like diamonds, on the main,

And tranquil muse upon tranquility,

Full many a thought uncalled and undetained,

And many idle flitting fantasies

Traverse my indolent and passive brain-

As wild and various as the random gales

That swell and flutter on this subject lute!

And what if all of animated nature

Be but organic harps diversely framed,

That tremble into thought, as o'er them sweeps,

Plastic and vast, one intellectual breeze,

At once the soul of each, and God of all?

But thy more serious eye a mild reproof

Darts, oh beloved woman!-nor such thoughts

Dim and unhallowed dost thou not reject,

And biddest me walk humbly with my God.

Meek daughter in the family of Christ,

Well hast thou said and holily dispraised

These shapings of the unregenerate mind,

Bubbles that glitter as they rise and break

On vain philosophy's aye-babbling spring.

For never guiltless may I speak of Him,

Th'Incomprehensible! save when with awe

I praise him, and with faith that inly feels-

I praise him, and with faith that inly feels-

Who with his saving mercies healed me,

A sinful and most miserable man

Wildered and dark, and gave me to possess

Peace, and this cot, and the, heart-honoured maid!

 

Aug. 20th, 1795

 

Summary

The poem is an affectionate and tender address to Coleridge’s wife, Sara, as they spend a tranquil moment together in their home at Clevedon. The poet begins by describing the peacefulness of their surroundings. He finds great joy and comfort in sitting beside their cottage, which is beautifully adorned with jasmine and myrtle—symbols of innocence and love. With his wife’s cheek resting gently on his arm, he experiences a soothing sense of contentment.

As they watch the sky, Coleridge observes the clouds, which had recently been illuminated by the setting sun but are now fading into darkness. This transition from light to nightfall sets a reflective and serene mood. He describes the landscape around them—the sea in the distance, the nearby hills, and the countryside enveloped in evening stillness. The gentle sound of the waves enhances the sense of peace and harmony.

Coleridge then shifts his focus to the natural beauty surrounding their home. He speaks of the moon rising over the sea, casting a silver glow on the water. The sounds of nature, such as the rustling leaves and the murmuring tide, add to the calm and meditative atmosphere. The poet feels deeply connected to the place, as it offers both physical beauty and emotional fulfillment.

Towards the end of the poem, Coleridge expresses his gratitude for the simple yet profound happiness he experiences with Sara. The quiet moments they share in their peaceful cottage, surrounded by nature’s beauty, bring him a deep sense of joy and love. The poem ultimately celebrates the harmony between human emotions and the natural world, as well as the poet’s appreciation for the companionship of his beloved wife.

 

Analysis

Introduction

"Composed at Clevedon, Somersetshire" is a deeply personal and romantic poem written by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, expressing his love and contentment in the presence of his wife, Sara. The poem is set in Clevedon, a coastal town in Somerset, where Coleridge and Sara briefly lived after their marriage in 1795. It reflects his joy in domestic life and appreciation of nature, blending themes of love, peace, and the beauty of the natural world.

 

1. Romantic Idealization of Domestic Bliss

The poem opens with an intimate image of Coleridge and his wife sitting together:

"My pensive Sara, thy soft cheek reclined

Thus on mine arm, most soothing sweet it is"

Here, Coleridge conveys a deep emotional bond between him and Sara. The use of the adjective pensive suggests that Sara is lost in thought, while soft cheek reclined highlights a tender, affectionate moment. The phrase soothing sweet conveys both physical comfort and emotional contentment.

He further describes their home as a cottage covered with jasmine and myrtle:

"To sit beside our cot, our cot o’ergrown

With white-flowered jasmine and the broad-leaved myrtle

(Meet emblems they of innocence and love)"

The jasmine and myrtle are not just decorative elements but serve as symbolic representations of their love. Jasmine is often associated with purity and beauty, while myrtle symbolizes marital love and fidelity. By calling them meet emblems (meaning appropriate symbols), Coleridge reinforces the idea that their love is natural and untainted.

 

2. Nature as a Source of Tranquility

Coleridge, as a Romantic poet, deeply valued nature, and in this poem, he portrays it as a source of peace and spiritual fulfillment. He shifts from describing his domestic happiness to painting a vivid picture of the landscape around him:

"And watch the clouds that late were rich with light

Slow sad’ning round, and mark the star of eve

Serenely brilliant (such should wisdom be)"

Here, he observes the transformation of the sky as evening approaches. The clouds, once glowing with the sunset, now darken, symbolizing the passage of time and the quiet arrival of night. The star of eve (likely referring to Venus, the evening star) remains bright and unchanging, which he likens to wisdom—steady, guiding, and pure.

His use of light and darkness is significant. The fading light suggests the transitory nature of life, yet the presence of the evening star offers a reassuring sense of constancy and peace. This reflects the Romantic belief in finding stability and meaning in nature.

 

3. Contrast Between the Human World and Nature’s Eternity

As the poem progresses, Coleridge contrasts the ever-changing aspects of human life with the eternal and unchanging elements of nature. He listens to the waves of the sea and notes their calming effect:

"So hush’d the waves on quiet England’s shore!"

This line conveys a sense of security and peace. The phrase quiet England’s shore suggests not only the stillness of the sea but also a larger sense of belonging and comfort within his homeland.

Coleridge’s description of nature extends beyond mere admiration; he finds personal meaning and solace in it. The sea, the sky, and the stars serve as reminders of life’s continuity, offering him a form of emotional and philosophical anchoring.

 

4. A Meditative and Spiritual Tone

The poem takes on a meditative quality as Coleridge contemplates the deeper significance of his surroundings. His language becomes reflective, inviting the reader to pause and share in his appreciation of the present moment.

The tranquility of the scene, with the soft sounds of nature and the gentle presence of his wife, creates a mood of spiritual contentment. Unlike some of Coleridge’s other poems that deal with supernatural themes (The Rime of the Ancient Mariner), this poem is grounded in real-life experiences, celebrating simple, everyday joys.

 

5. Love and Contentment in Simplicity

One of the most striking aspects of this poem is its deep sense of gratitude for life’s simple pleasures. There is no mention of grand ambitions or external achievements—only the joy of being with a loved one in a peaceful, natural setting.

This aligns with the Romantic ideal that true happiness is found in personal relationships and a harmonious connection with nature. Coleridge’s contentment does not stem from wealth or status but from love, companionship, and the beauty of the world around him.

 

Conclusion: The Poem as a Romantic Manifestation

"Composed at Clevedon, Somersetshire" is a perfect example of Romantic poetry, emphasizing:

Emotional depth and personal experience (expressing love for Sara)

A deep connection with nature (the sea, the sky, the evening star)

A meditative and reflective tone (finding meaning in simplicity)

The celebration of domestic life (happiness in the small joys of married life)

Unlike some of Coleridge’s more complex and imaginative works, this poem is straightforward, gentle, and filled with gratitude. It serves as a beautiful reflection on the poet’s personal happiness and his belief in the power of love and nature to provide peace and fulfillment.

 

Critical Evaluation

 

1. A Personal and Intimate Poem

Unlike some of Coleridge’s more famous works—such as The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Kubla Khan, which explore supernatural and dreamlike themes—this poem is strikingly personal and grounded in reality. It offers a rare glimpse into Coleridge’s domestic happiness, written shortly after his marriage to Sara. The poem celebrates the simple joys of love and companionship, making it one of his most tender and heartfelt compositions.

While Coleridge is often known for his philosophical depth and exploration of the human psyche, here he presents a more immediate, sentimental, and direct expression of contentment. This simplicity, however, does not diminish the poem’s artistic merit but rather enhances its sincerity.

 

2. Romanticism and the Power of Nature

As a leading figure of the Romantic movement, Coleridge’s emphasis on nature as a source of beauty, tranquility, and emotional fulfillment is evident throughout the poem. The depiction of the evening sky, the sea, and the quiet English countryside aligns with the Romantic ideal of nature as a sanctuary for the human soul.

However, unlike Wordsworth—who often found deep spiritual meaning in nature—Coleridge in this poem presents nature as a backdrop to his personal happiness rather than as a force that transforms the self. The natural elements serve to amplify his feelings of love and peace, but they do not dominate the poem’s central theme. This sets the poem apart from some of the more philosophical Romantic nature poetry.

 

3. Use of Symbolism

Coleridge subtly employs symbolism throughout the poem to deepen its meaning:

Jasmine and Myrtle – Represent innocence and love, symbolizing the purity of Coleridge’s marriage.

The Evening Star (Venus) – A symbol of wisdom and constancy, representing the stability and enduring nature of love.

The Setting Sun and Darkening Clouds – These may hint at the passage of time and life’s fleeting nature, though they are not used in a melancholic way.

This use of symbolism adds layers of meaning to what might otherwise be seen as a straightforward romantic poem.

 

4. Language and Poetic Technique

Coleridge employs a soft, flowing rhythm and a gentle, lyrical tone that matches the peaceful mood of the poem. His choice of words—soft cheek reclined, soothing sweet, hush’d waves—creates a sense of calm and tenderness. The repetition of phrases like our cot reinforces the intimacy of the moment, emphasizing the personal connection he feels with his wife and their home.

The poem also displays a subtle interplay of light and dark imagery. The transition from a bright sky to evening darkness mirrors the poet’s reflective mood, but rather than signifying sadness, it suggests a peaceful acceptance of time’s passage.

 

5. Absence of Conflict or Struggle

One of the most notable aspects of this poem is its lack of conflict. Many of Coleridge’s other works grapple with deep philosophical questions, supernatural elements, or inner turmoil. In contrast, this poem is entirely free of tension. There is no longing, loss, or struggle—only contentment.

For some critics, this absence of tension makes the poem less complex compared to his other works. However, others argue that its strength lies in its sincerity and ability to capture a fleeting moment of pure happiness.

 

6. Comparison with Other Romantic Poets

This poem can be compared with the works of other Romantic poets:

William Wordsworth – Wordsworth often wrote about nature’s impact on the human soul. His poem Tintern Abbey, for example, explores how nature shapes and influences human thought over time. In contrast, Coleridge’s Composed at Clevedon does not explore nature’s deeper impact but rather presents it as a peaceful setting for his happiness.

John Keats – Keats often focused on the beauty of transient moments, as seen in To Autumn. Coleridge’s poem shares this appreciation for fleeting beauty but does not carry Keats’ melancholic awareness of time’s passage.

Lord Byron & Percy Bysshe Shelley – Both poets infused their works with strong emotions and themes of rebellion. Coleridge’s poem is much more subdued, focusing on personal joy rather than dramatic intensity.

Thus, Composed at Clevedon represents a quieter, more personal side of Romanticism.

 

7. A Reflection of Coleridge’s Life and Later Irony

The poem reflects a moment of bliss in Coleridge’s early married life. However, in later years, his relationship with Sara deteriorated due to his struggles with opium addiction, financial difficulties, and intellectual differences. Eventually, they grew distant, and Coleridge lived separately from her.

This knowledge adds an ironic layer to the poem. What was once a sincere declaration of happiness later became a lost ideal. Some critics argue that this gives the poem an unintentional poignancy—it captures a moment of joy that, in hindsight, was not destined to last.

 

Strengths and Weaknesses

 

Strengths:

A deeply personal and tender expression of love

Beautiful and tranquil imagery of nature

A fine example of Romantic poetry’s appreciation of simplicity and domestic joy

A soothing, harmonious rhythm and tone

 

Weaknesses:

Lacks the complexity and depth of Coleridge’s major works

Does not explore nature’s transformative power as deeply as Wordsworth’s poetry

The absence of conflict makes it less dynamic compared to other Romantic poems

 

Conclusion

"Composed at Clevedon, Somersetshire" is a gentle and heartfelt poem that captures a moment of pure happiness in Coleridge’s life. While it lacks the depth and complexity of his greater works, its strength lies in its simplicity, sincerity, and celebration of love and nature. The poem exemplifies the Romantic ideal of finding contentment in nature and personal relationships, making it a valuable piece in Coleridge’s body of work.

However, when viewed in the context of Coleridge’s later struggles, it also serves as a bittersweet reminder of the fleeting nature of happiness. While it may not be as intellectually profound as Kubla Khan or as narratively compelling as The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, it remains a beautifully composed reflection on love, peace, and the quiet joys of life.

 

Comparison of Composed at Clevedon, Somersetshire with Frost at Midnight By Samuel Taylor Coleridge

 

Both Composed at Clevedon, Somersetshire and Frost at Midnight reflect Coleridge’s love for nature, his appreciation of tranquility, and his deep emotional connections with loved ones. However, they differ significantly in tone, depth, and philosophical outlook.

 

1. Theme: Personal Happiness vs. Philosophical Reflection

Composed at Clevedon, Somersetshire focuses on a single, fleeting moment of joy in Coleridge’s life. The poet expresses his love for Sara and his appreciation of the peaceful surroundings of their home. The poem is straightforward and sentimental, celebrating love and nature in a simple, harmonious manner.

Frost at Midnight, on the other hand, is a more introspective and philosophical poem. It is addressed to Coleridge’s infant son, Hartley, and explores the poet’s thoughts on childhood, nature, and education. Coleridge contrasts his own lonely and restricted childhood with the free, nature-filled life he hopes for his son.

 

2. Setting: A Peaceful Home vs. A Quiet Night of Reflection

In Composed at Clevedon, Coleridge sits outside his cottage with his wife, observing the evening sky and the calm sea. The setting is one of domestic bliss and natural beauty, with jasmine and myrtle symbolizing purity and love.

In Frost at Midnight, the setting is much more still and eerie. The poet sits alone at night, watching the frost settle outside while his child sleeps. The poem creates an atmosphere of solitude and quiet contemplation, contrasting with the warmth and companionship in Composed at Clevedon.

 

3. Mood: Joyful vs. Meditative

The mood of Composed at Clevedon is serene and joyful, free of anxiety or deep philosophical questioning. Coleridge is fully immersed in the present moment, embracing love and nature without overanalyzing them.

Frost at Midnight, however, has a meditative and nostalgic tone. The poet reflects on his past, contemplates the power of nature, and envisions a hopeful future for his son. There is an undercurrent of longing and regret in this poem, which is absent in Composed at Clevedon.

 

4. Nature’s Role: Backdrop for Love vs. Source of Spiritual Growth

In Composed at Clevedon, nature serves as a complement to human happiness. The peaceful sea, the evening star, and the jasmine-covered cottage enhance Coleridge’s feelings of contentment.

In Frost at Midnight, nature is seen as a force that shapes the human soul. Coleridge believes that growing up in harmony with nature will allow his son to develop wisdom, spiritual depth, and inner peace. He presents nature as a kind of divine teacher, much like Wordsworth does in Tintern Abbey.

 

5. Symbolism: Simple Domestic Symbols vs. Deep Metaphysical Symbols

In Composed at Clevedon, the jasmine and myrtle symbolize innocence and love, while the evening star represents wisdom and constancy. These symbols are straightforward and tied to domestic life.

In Frost at Midnight, the “film” of fire (a thin layer of soot moving on the grate) is a powerful symbol of the poet’s thoughts, representing his dreams and uncertainties. The frost itself symbolizes the quiet presence of nature, which watches over both the poet and his sleeping child. These symbols have deeper philosophical meanings than those in Composed at Clevedon.

 

6. The Role of Loved Ones: Romantic Love vs. Paternal Love

Composed at Clevedon is centered around Coleridge’s romantic love for Sara. She is physically present, resting her cheek on his arm, making the moment tangible and emotionally warm.

Frost at Midnight is about paternal love for his infant son, who is asleep and unaware of the poet’s thoughts. The poem is filled with hopes for the future, showing Coleridge’s concerns as a father.

 

7. Structure and Poetic Style

Composed at Clevedon has a regular, gentle rhythm, mirroring its calm and peaceful subject matter. The language is simple and melodic, creating an intimate, soothing effect.

Frost at Midnight follows a more fluid and meditative structure, using blank verse (unrhymed iambic pentameter). The poem moves through different thoughts and reflections, making it less structured but more profound in its philosophical exploration.

 

Conclusion: Two Sides of Coleridge’s Poetry

While both poems showcase Coleridge’s appreciation for nature and love, they highlight different aspects of his poetic personality:

 

Composed at Clevedon presents a simple, romantic, and momentary joy, reflecting Coleridge’s happiness in love and nature.

Frost at Midnight is introspective and philosophical, reflecting on childhood, nature’s power, and a hopeful future.

This comparison shows that Coleridge was not just a poet of supernatural and imaginative themes (Kubla Khan, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner), but also a poet who deeply valued human emotions, personal relationships, and the spiritual aspects of nature.