She Is Not Fair - Classic Text | Alexandria
She Is Not Fair (Hartley Coleridge)
"She Is Not Fair" stands as one of the most poignant sonnets by Hartley Coleridge (1796-1849), the eldest son of the Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Published posthumously in 1851, this contemplative work explores the essence of beauty beyond physical appearance, challenging conventional Victorian ideals of feminine attraction.
The sonnet emerged during the latter part of Hartley Coleridge's life, likely composed in the 1840s while he resided in the Lake District. This period marked a time of personal reflection and relative isolation for the poet, who struggled to emerge from his famous father's shadow while grappling with his own demons of alcoholism and unfulfilled potential. The work's creation coincided with the Victorian era's growing preoccupation with physical beauty and moral virtue, making its counter-cultural message particularly significant.
The poem's enduring appeal lies in its subtle subversion of Petrarchan conventions, presenting a beloved who defies traditional standards of beauty yet captures the speaker's heart through deeper, more ineffable qualities. Coleridge's innovative approach reflects both his Romantic heritage and his unique perspective on human attraction. The work's opening line, "She is not fair to outward view," immediately establishes its philosophical stance, while subsequent verses build a complex portrait of beauty transcending physical appearance – a theme that resonated with Victorian readers and continues to engage modern audiences.
In contemporary literary discourse, "She Is Not Fair" remains a vital text for understanding both the personal struggles of Hartley Coleridge and the broader cultural tensions of the Victorian period. The poem's exploration of inner beauty versus external appearance anticipates modern discussions about beauty standards and authentic human connection. Its legacy endures in academic studies of Romantic poetry and investigations into the complex relationship between the Coleridge literary dynasty and Victorian society. The work continues to prompt readers to question their own preconceptions about beauty, love, and the nature of human attraction.