Final answer:
Published posthumously in 1850, 'The Prelude' underscores Wordsworth's profound influence on the direction of English poetry, marking a turn towards romanticism and away from classical conventions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Published posthumously in 1850, The Prelude is considered one of William Wordsworth's most notable works, and it exemplifies his significant impact on the shift of English poetry. Wordsworth's work, particularly his collaboration with Samuel Taylor Coleridge on Lyrical Ballads, pioneered the Romantic era of poetry which emphasized emotion, individualism, and the beauty of the natural world. However, Wordsworth's poetry, unlike the later Victorian trend guided by poets like Alfred Lord Tennyson, did not reflect the 'tell it like it is' sentiment that moved away from idealizing natural beauty.
Wordsworth's influence reached far beyond his lifetime, with his Romantic notions paving the way for future generations of poets and writers. His commitment to expressing authentic human emotions and the intrinsic relationship between nature and humanity marked a turning point from the classical styles that preceded him. As such, his legacy is seen in the continued admiration for his work and the inspiration it provides for poets and lovers of poetry alike.