Author
T. S. (Thomas Stearns) Eliot
1888-1965
T. S. (Thomas Stearns) Eliot (1888-1965) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by T. S. (Thomas Stearns) Eliot
The Waste Land
"The Waste Land" by T. S. Eliot is a poem published in 1922. This 434-line modernist masterpiece shifts between voices of satire and prophecy, featuring abrupt changes of narrator, location, and time. The poem conjures a dissonant range of cultures through numerous literary allusions, from Dante to Chaucer. Divided into five sections, it explores themes of disillusionment, despair, and emptiness through fragmented narratives. Initially receiving mixed reviews for its obscurity, it became one of the most influential English-language poems of the 20th century.
The Sacred Wood: Essays on Poetry and Criticism
"The Sacred Wood: Essays on Poetry and Criticism" by T. S. Eliot is a collection of literary essays written in the early 20th century. The work explores various aspects of poetry and criticism, reflecting Eliot's thoughts on the evolution of literary practices and the roles of the poet and critic in society. It discusses the importance of tradition, the relationship between old and new works, and the proper function of criticism within literature. The opening portion introduces Eliot’s perspective on literary criticism through a reflection on Matthew Arnold and the Romantic Generation. He critiques the overemphasis of personal sentiment in criticism and the tendency of critics to stray from the essential task of comprehending literature itself. Eliot articulates his belief that true criticism should involve a historical awareness, recognizing the influence of past works on contemporary literature. He emphasizes the necessity to engage with the entire literary tradition, arguing that a poet’s value is inherently tied to their understanding of and relationship with both contemporary and historical texts. This sets the stage for a deeper investigation into the nature of poetic expression and the critic's role in articulating and preserving the art form.
Prufrock and Other Observations
"Prufrock and Other Observations" by T. S. Eliot is a distinguished collection of poems written in the early 20th century. This work, which includes some of Eliot's most notable pieces such as "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," captures the complexities of modern life, focusing on themes of alienation, introspection, and the passage of time. Through vivid imagery and innovative language, Eliot explores the inner workings of the human psyche. The collection begins with "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," where the protagonist grapples with feelings of inadequacy and paralysis in the face of social interaction and existential questions. Throughout the poems, Eliot presents a series of reflections and encounters, each illustrating moments of modern discontent and the fragmented nature of contemporary existence. Works like "Portrait of a Lady" and "Preludes" further delve into the intricacies of relationships and the mundane rhythms of urban life, accompanied by an evocative atmosphere that transforms ordinary observations into profound insights. Ultimately, this collection resonates with the sense of a disenchanted world, inviting readers into a beautifully haunting exploration of identity and experience.
Poems
"Poems by T. S. Eliot" is a collection of poetry published in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1920s. The book showcases Eliot's innovative use of language and form, encompassing various themes of modern existence, personal reflection, and societal critique. The collection is known for its deep emotional resonance and complexity, reflecting the disillusionment and fragmentation of contemporary life. The poems within this collection delve into a range of topics, often exploring the inner turmoil of the modern individual amidst the chaos of urban existence. Notable works include "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," which captures the hesitations and fears of a man unsure of his place in the world, and "Gerontion," which reflects on aging and loss in a decaying society. Eliot's distinct imagery and styles, from the conversational tones in "Mr. Eliot's Sunday Morning Service" to the vivid scenes in "Preludes," invite readers to engage deeply with the text, pondering the complexities of life, time, and identity. The collection is a significant work that showcases Eliot's mastery of modernist poetry and remains influential in both literary and cultural discussions.
Ezra Pound: His Metric and Poetry
"Ezra Pound: His Metric and Poetry" by T. S. Eliot is a critical exploration of the work of the influential American poet Ezra Pound, written in the early 20th century. This book, serving as a critical essay rather than a biography, addresses the nuances of Pound's metrics and poetic techniques, focusing on the poet's contributions to modern poetry. It aims to provide insights into how Pound's scholarly background and keen understanding of various poetic forms influenced his unique style. In the essay, Eliot discusses Pound's early works, such as "A Lume Spento" and "Personae," highlighting the intensity and originality that characterize his poetry. He notes the challenges Pound faced as an unknown poet in London and how his innovative use of meters and language set him apart from his contemporaries. Eliot also examines the evolution of Pound’s work over ten years, referencing his experiments with different forms and his movement towards new subjects, including the influences from Chinese and Japanese literature. The essay is an invitation for readers to engage more deeply with Pound's poetic innovations without being overwhelmed by critical baggage, encouraging a fresh appreciation for his literary contributions.
Homage to John Dryden: Three Essays on Poetry of the Seventeenth Century
"Homage to John Dryden: Three Essays on Poetry of the Seventeenth Century" by Eliot is a collection of critical essays written in the early 20th century. The book examines the poetry of the seventeenth century, focusing particularly on John Dryden, the metaphysical poets, and Andrew Marvell. It explores the elegance, dignity, and unique qualities of poetry from this era, contrasting it with the popular verse of later periods. In these essays, Eliot seeks to revive appreciation for John Dryden's work, arguing that his genius extends beyond satire to a profound mastery of language that has often been overlooked. He discusses the characteristics of metaphysical poetry, particularly the complex interplay of ideas and emotions that defined poets like John Donne and Andrew Marvell. Through insightful analysis, Eliot highlights the sophistication and relevance of seventeenth-century poetry, emphasizing its contributions to the broader trajectory of English literature and calling for a renewed understanding of its merits.
Eeldrop and Appleplex
"Eeldrop and Appleplex" by T. S. Eliot is a philosophical dialogue written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the complexities of human experience and individuality, framed through the conversations of two men, Eeldrop and Appleplex, as they grapple with the essential nature of human existence and the meaning of life in a world filled with classifications and societal expectations. The book tackles heavy themes of identity, perception, and the essence of reality, blending elements of both existential thought and social critique. In the narrative, Eeldrop and Appleplex are two peculiar characters who retreat to a detached existence in a quiet, disreputable part of town. They engage in reflective conversations that dissect the nature of humanity and the ways in which individuals are often reduced to stereotypes. Through their discussions about various subjects, including the enigmatic figure of Edith, they ponder the significance of unique experiences versus generalized classifications. Eeldrop, a skeptic with theological knowledge, and Appleplex, a materialist interested in social analysis, explore their contrasting perspectives on individual lives, revealing a deep-seated desire to understand the human soul in its authentic form rather than through the lens of societal labels. Ultimately, the book presents a meditation on the search for meaning within the constraints of modern life and the desire for true connection amidst overwhelming classification.
Ara vus prec
"Ara vus prec" by T. S. Eliot is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century. This seminal work showcases Eliot's deep exploration of modernity, alienation, and the complexities of human experience through vivid imagery and innovative structure. It reflects the chaos of contemporary life and delves into themes of love, death, and existential reflection. The collection features a variety of poems, including notable pieces such as "Gerontion," "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," and "Whispers of Immortality." Each poem invites readers into fragmented yet powerful landscapes of thought, often depicting characters grappling with their identities and desires within a rapidly changing world. The language is rich with allusions, intricate rhythms, and emotional depth, offering glimpses into the psyche of individuals who are both deeply connected to and profoundly estranged from their surroundings. Through themes like the passage of time, introspection, and the search for meaning, Eliot encapsulates the essence of the human condition, making this collection a cornerstone of modernist literature.