The Suicide's Argument

Name: The Suicide's Argument
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The poem explores the philosophical and existential dilemma surrounding life and death, questioning the value and purpose of existence. It begins with a reflection on the nature of life, suggesting that the individual had no choice in being born. The speaker contemplates the inherent struggle of life, implying that existence itself is a trial, where the act of living is an affirmative response to the question of being. Nature responds to this contemplation by prompting self-reflection. It challenges the individual to consider their essence and past, highlighting the gifts of innocence, hope, health, and potential that life offers. The speaker is urged to evaluate their current state against these gifts, confronting feelings of guilt, lethargy, and despair. This inventory of one's life serves as a catalyst for deeper introspection. The poem ultimately poses a stark choice: to embrace life despite its challenges or to confront the finality of death. It suggests that the act of dying is not merely an escape but a significant decision that requires courage. The tension between the desire for life and the allure of death is central to the work, reflecting a profound engagement with the human condition and the complexities of existence. The piece invites readers to grapple with their own understanding of life’s worth and the implications of their choices.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1795 · Genre: Philosophical Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric Poetry · 161 words

First lines

Ere the birth of my life, if I wish'd it or no, No question was asked me -- it could not be so! If the life was the question, a thing sent to try, And to live on be Yes; what can No be? to die.

NATURE'S ANSWER

Is't returned, as 'twas sent? Is't no worse for the wear? Think first, what you are! Call to mind what you were! I gave you innocence, I gave you hope, Gave health, and genius, and an ample scope. Return you me guilt, lethargy, despair? Make out the invent'ry; inspect, compare! Then die -- if die you dare!

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The Suicide's Argument is listed on Textopian as a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1795 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1795 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric Poetry, Existential Literature, Dark Poetry
Length: 161 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genres

Philosophical Poetry — The poem explores deep existential questions about life, death, and the nature of existence.
Romanticism — Coleridge's work embodies the Romantic era's focus on emotion, nature, and individual experience.
Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal feelings and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Existential Literature — The themes of questioning existence and the value of life align with existential literature.