William Hazlitt – My First Acquaintance with Poets
“My First Acquaintance with Poets” is one of the most celebrated essays by William Hazlitt. It is a personal, autobiographical, and critical essay in which Hazlitt recalls his first meeting with major Romantic poets, especially Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth.
The essay blends literary criticism, personal memory, character sketch, and philosophical reflection, making it both informative and emotionally engaging.
Background of the Essay
Hazlitt met Coleridge and Wordsworth in 1798 during the early years of Romanticism. At the time, he was a young man deeply interested in philosophy, politics, and poetry.
This essay records how these encounters shaped Hazlitt’s intellectual and emotional life.
Central Idea
The essay explores:
- the excitement of discovering poetic genius
- the contrast between idealism and reality
- the relationship between poet and critic
- the growth of Romantic imagination
Hazlitt shows how meeting great poets transforms a young mind.
Summary of the Essay
1. Meeting Coleridge
Hazlitt first encounters Samuel Taylor Coleridge when he hears him preach at a Unitarian chapel. Coleridge’s speech deeply impresses him with:
- its philosophical depth
- imaginative power
- musical language
Hazlitt describes Coleridge as a man of extraordinary intellect and imagination.
2. Influence of Coleridge
Coleridge inspires Hazlitt intellectually and emotionally. Through him, Hazlitt is introduced to:
- new poetic ideas
- German philosophy
- the spirit of Romanticism
Hazlitt regards this meeting as a turning point in his life.
3. Meeting Wordsworth
Hazlitt later meets William Wordsworth and is initially impressed by his poetic genius. Wordsworth’s poetry appears:
- simple
- natural
- deeply philosophical
Hazlitt admires Wordsworth’s devotion to nature and imagination.
4. Change in Attitude Towards Wordsworth
Over time, Hazlitt becomes critical of Wordsworth’s:
- political conservatism
- self-centered philosophy
- withdrawal from radical ideals
This change introduces tension between admiration and disappointment.
5. Reality vs Idealism
Hazlitt realises that poets, though great in imagination, are human and flawed. The essay thus contrasts:
- the ideal image of poets
- their real personalities
This honest portrayal adds depth and credibility to the essay.
Major Themes
- Romantic Imagination – celebration of poetic genius.
- Personal Experience – criticism rooted in lived encounters.
- Idealism vs Reality – poets as human beings.
- Politics and Poetry – shift from radicalism to conservatism.
- Intellectual Growth – formation of the critic’s mind.
Style and Technique
- autobiographical narrative
- vivid character sketches
- blend of criticism and memory
- direct, conversational prose
- emotional honesty
Hazlitt’s style is energetic, passionate, and intellectually sharp.
Significance of the Essay
- documents early Romantic literary culture
- reveals Hazlitt as both critic and participant
- offers insight into Coleridge and Wordsworth
- combines criticism with autobiography
Critical Appreciation
- The essay is admired for its sincerity and vividness.
- Hazlitt’s criticism is personal yet perceptive.
- The essay captures the excitement of Romantic discovery.
- It remains a key text of Romantic prose.
Quick Revision Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | William Hazlitt |
| Essay | My First Acquaintance with Poets |
| Form | Autobiographical critical essay |
| Main Figures | Coleridge, Wordsworth |
| Main Theme | Romantic imagination & personal experience |
| Tone | Reflective, admiring, critical |
| Style | Energetic, conversational, analytical |
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