This book explores those moments of repetition, placing them in the early nineteenth century context from which they emerged, and teasing out through extended close attention to the poetry itself the complexities of repetition and recapitulation.

Wordsworth’s process of revision, his organization of poetic volumes and his supplementary writings are often seen as distinct from his poetic composition. Bates asserts that an analysis of these supplementary writings and paratexts are necessary to a full understanding of Wordsworth’s poetry.

A study of the powers of recollection in the creative life of a poet.

Wordsworth's verse and compelling criticism have shaped our understanding of poetic art since the Romantic period. This collection is the first in years to reexamine Wordsworth's complex theory of poetry in depth. Designed to be equally useful and inspiring, it provides much-needed reassessments of a vital juncture of Romantic creativity.