The Haunting Void: The Frightening Absence of Poetry
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Chapter 1: Romanticism and Science
Humphry Davy serves as an exemplary figure for analyzing the connection between Romanticism and science. Not only was he a distinguished scientist, but he also mingled within the same social circles as both the older and younger Romantic poets. Davy's friendships with notable literary figures such as Sir Walter Scott, William Wordsworth, and Samuel Taylor Coleridge further illustrate this intertwining relationship. He played a role in assisting Wordsworth with the proofreading of the second edition of "Lyrical Ballads" (1801), enjoyed mountain climbing with Scott and Wordsworth in 1805, and encouraged Coleridge to deliver lectures at the Royal Institution, mirroring his own engagements.
As Mary Shelley and Percy Bysshe Shelley delved into Davy’s "Elements of Chemical Philosophy" (1812), Mary was in the nascent stages of crafting "Frankenstein" in late 2016. Notably, the Norton Anthology of Theory and Criticism suggests that Wordsworth might have had Davy in mind when discussing the ‘Man of science’ in his preface to "Lyrical Ballads" (1802). Davy, fluent in French and also a poet, blurs the lines between science and art.
In the following excerpt from "Preface to Lyrical Ballads," Wordsworth articulates his perception of the bond between the 'Poet' and the 'Man of science':
The knowledge possessed by both the Poet and the Man of science brings pleasure; however, the Poet's knowledge is an intrinsic part of our existence, while the Man of science’s understanding is a personal achievement that often remains isolated. The Man of science seeks truth as a distant, unknown ally, cherishing it in solitude, whereas the Poet invites all humanity to partake in his celebration of truth, which he experiences as a constant companion. Poetry embodies the essence of all knowledge, serving as the emotional expression inherent in every scientific endeavor. It is both the beginning and end of all understanding—timeless as the human heart. Should the efforts of scientists ever lead to significant changes in our existence, the Poet will remain vigilant, ready to accompany the Man of science, engaging with the very subjects of scientific inquiry. Discoveries made by chemists, botanists, or mineralogists will be just as fitting for poetic exploration as any other subject, provided that they become familiar to us. When science becomes more accessible, the Poet will offer his spirit to facilitate this transformation and will embrace the being produced as a cherished member of humanity.
Wordsworth here depicts science as a nascent field pursued in isolation, one that has yet to demonstrate its utility. His repeated phrase, "if the time should ever come," illustrates his skepticism toward science. It is clear that Wordsworth deemed poetry far more vital and central to the human experience than science. Interestingly, Davy takes a contrary stance in his "Elements of Chemical Philosophy," criticizing ancient proto-scientific texts as little more than poetic speculations devoid of true scientific merit.
Poetry is portrayed as a crucial pursuit that fosters community, while science is viewed as a solitary endeavor. The intrinsic value of poetry lies in its ability to humanize and enliven. This theme resonates strongly in "Frankenstein," where Victor Frankenstein's obsessive pursuit of science leads him to forsake relationships, resulting in catastrophic consequences. Consumed by his ambitions, he experiences a sense of horror and regret once his creation comes to life, highlighting the dangers of neglecting the humanizing power of poetry.
The narrative of "Frankenstein" serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of scientific pursuit when divorced from the nurturing aspects of poetry.