;">Before Wordsworth, poets followed strict structures. They also used fancy words. They wrote about kings, gods, and grand events. Wordsworth changed this. He said poetry should be free and natural. He ignored old poetic rules and focused on real emotions. This break from tradition was a key feature of Romanticism. His preface openly criticized old poetry. This makes it a bold declaration of new literary values. It is evident in the following quotation. 

“There will be found in these volumes little of what is usually called poetic diction.”

Focus on Ordinary People: Romantic poets believed in the value of everyday life. Wordsworth’s preface emphasized this. He said poetry should describe farmers, shepherds, and villagers. He believed their lives were more honest and emotional. This was a radical idea at the time. By giving importance to ordinary people, he shaped Romantic poetry’s democratic spirit. His preface made this idea central to the movement.

Simple Language: Wordsworth says poetry must use everyday language. Unlike old poets who used fancy words, he writes as common people speak. This makes poetry easy to understand. He believes deep emotions are best expressed in simple words. When a shepherd or farmer reads his poems, they should feel connected. His goal is to remove the gap between poets and ordinary readers. The poet says,

“My purpose was to imitate, and as far as possible, to adopt the very language of men.”

Nature as a Major Theme: Romantic poets loved nature, and Wordsworth’s preface explained why. He said nature inspires deep emotions and truth. Unlike city life, nature is pure and peaceful. His poems celebrated mountains, rivers, and rural life. This love for nature became a core Romantic theme. His preface made it an important poetic subject.

Emotion Over Logic: The Romantic Movement valued feelings more than reason. Wordsworth’s preface highlighted this. He defines poetry as follows,

“For all good poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings.”

He said true poetry comes from the heart, not just the mind. This focus on emotion became a defining feature of Romanticism. His preface explained this idea clearly.

In conclusion, Wordsworth’s “Preface to Lyrical Ballads” changed people's thoughts about poetry. He broke old rules of poetry. He also made poetry more open and natural. He gave value to simple words, real people, strong emotions, and nature. All these ideas became the heart of the Romantic Movement. That is why this preface is called the “manifesto” of Romanticism.