[Max Goodman]

In my Crofts Classics Coleridege, "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" is printed with frequent notes adjacent to the verse, distinct from footnotes. For several reasons, including their archaic language, mimicking that of the poem, I've always considered them a part of the poem, or, since they're distinct from the verse, a standard accessory. A few samples:

An Ancient Mariner greeteth three Gallants bidden to a Wedding-feast and detaineth one.

The ancient Mariner inhospitably killeth the pious bird of good omen.

The ship hath been suddenly becalmed.

I'm surprised to find there are versions of the poem that don't include these notes, the one at the Poetry Foundation's website, for instance.

How familiar are these notes? Do you expect them to be included when you see the poem?

If a parody or pastiche of the poem were to include such notes would you be confused or otherwise put off?

Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts.