Fancy in Nubibus or the Poet in the Clouds

Name: Fancy in Nubibus or the Poet in the Clouds
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The poem explores the theme of imagination and the power of perception, particularly in relation to nature and the sky. It begins with a sense of tranquility and ease, emphasizing the joy found in the act of daydreaming and the freedom to interpret the world creatively. The speaker revels in the beauty of the clouds, suggesting that they can transform into whatever shapes and forms one desires, reflecting personal thoughts and emotions. As the poem progresses, the imagery becomes more vivid, depicting a journey through an ethereal landscape where the clouds serve as a canvas for the imagination. The speaker invites the reader to envision rivers of gold and crimson banks, illustrating the richness of the imaginative experience. This journey through "Cloudland" symbolizes a departure from reality, allowing for exploration and adventure in a fantastical realm. The poem also references the power of music and poetry, drawing a parallel between the natural world and the creative process. The mention of a "blind bard" evokes the idea of inspiration arising from deep emotional and sensory experiences, suggesting that true artistry comes from within. The bard's ability to conjure epic tales from the sounds of the sea highlights the connection between nature and artistic creation. Ultimately, the work celebrates the interplay between reality and imagination, encouraging readers to embrace their creative faculties and find beauty in the world around them. It underscores the notion that perception shapes experience, and through imagination, one can transcend the ordinary and engage with the extraordinary.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1817 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry · 168 words

First lines

O! It is pleasant, with a heart at ease, Just after sunset, or by moonlight skies, To make the shifting clouds be what you please, Or let the easily persuaded eyes Own each quaint likeness issuing from the mould Of a friend's fancy; or with head bent low And cheek aslant see rivers flow of gold 'Twixt crimson banks; and then, a traveller, go From mount to mount through Cloudland, gorgeous land! Or list'ning to the tide, with closed sight, Be that blind bard, who on the Chian strand By those deep sounds possessed with inward light, Beheld the Iliad and the Odyssee Rise to the swelling of the voiceful sea.

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Fancy in Nubibus or the Poet in the Clouds is listed on Textopian as a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1817 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1817 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Visionary Poetry, Symbolism
Length: 168 words
Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Romantic Poetry — The work embodies the characteristics of Romantic poetry, emphasizing imagination, nature, and emotional depth.
Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal feelings and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry, focusing on the beauty of imagination and nature.
Nature Poetry — The imagery of clouds and landscapes highlights the connection between nature and human emotion, a common theme in nature poetry.
Visionary Poetry — The poem explores imaginative visions and the transcendence of reality, aligning with the traits of visionary poetry.