Prior to Wordsworth, humor was an essential part of poetry. I mean, they don't call them Shakespeare comedies for nothing.

In this quote, William Collins is commenting on the evolution of humor in poetry, suggesting that before William Wordsworth, humor played a central role in the poetic tradition. Collins argues that humor was a vital aspect of poetry, with even the great poets like Shakespeare incorporating it in their works. By saying, “they don't call them Shakespeare comedies for nothing,” Collins is pointing to how Shakespeare’s comedic plays are celebrated for their wit, satire, and playful language, implying that humor was once a foundational element in much of literature.

The reference to Wordsworth is significant because he represents a shift in literary focus. As a key figure in the Romantic movement, Wordsworth is often associated with a more serious, introspective form of poetry, which contrasts with the humor and levity found in earlier works. By highlighting this change, Collins emphasizes the shift away from humor toward more philosophical and emotional themes in poetry during the Romantic era.

The mention of Shakespeare comedies also serves to highlight the richness of Elizabethan drama, where humor wasn’t just for entertainment but was intricately woven into the fabric of the narrative. Shakespeare used humor to explore human nature, social dynamics, and even moral issues, making his comedies both entertaining and thought-provoking. Collins suggests that humor’s place in poetry and drama was not just incidental, but essential to how stories were told and how audiences connected with the work.

Ultimately, Collins’ quote reflects a nostalgia for a time when humor was a more prominent feature of poetry and literature. It underscores the notion that humor, far from being a superficial or secondary element, was once deeply integrated into the structure of great works of poetry, enriching them in both depth and accessibility.