Author
Sidney Lanier
1842-1881
Sidney Lanier (1842-1881) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Sidney Lanier
Select Poems of Sidney Lanier
"Select Poems of Sidney Lanier" by Sidney Lanier is a collection of poetry reflective of the late 19th century. This edited volume showcases Lanier's lyrical and often nature-inspired works, aiming to introduce his poetry to a broader audience, particularly students. The anthology not only celebrates the beauty and themes present in Lanier's poetry but also provides insight into the life and struggles of the poet himself, allowing readers to appreciate the depth of his artistic vision. At the start of this collection, the introduction outlines the purpose of the anthology while offering a brief sketch of Sidney Lanier’s life. It highlights his journey from a musically inclined youth to a soldier during the Civil War, and eventually to a poet and lecturer despite his ongoing battles with health issues. The opening chapters emphasize Lanier's profound connection to nature and music, setting the stage for understanding how these influences permeate his poetry, as seen in the selections that capture both the splendors and challenges of life. The editor, Morgan Callaway, aims to present Lanier as a significant figure in American poetry, making a case for his enduring value and relevance.
The Poems of Sidney Lanier
"The Poems of Sidney Lanier" by Sidney Lanier is a collection of poetry created in the late 19th century, honoring the works of the American Georgian poet and scholar. This compilation presents a range of Lanier's verses that explore themes of nature, human emotion, and the interplay between music and poetry, reflecting his deep appreciation for both artistic forms. The collection is edited by his wife, providing a rich context that adds personal depth to the understanding of Lanier's life and artistic journey. The opening of this collection sets the stage for the poet's life and introduces readers to his deep connection with music and the natural world. Detailed personal accounts reveal his struggles and triumphs as an artist, emphasizing how his health issues intertwined with his creative endeavors. The text begins with a memorial that depicts Sidney Lanier's family background, musical inclinations, and the onset of war, which interrupted his academic pursuits. His artistic spirit shines through, as he articulates a profound yearning for beauty and meaning, suggesting that even amid personal and societal turbulence, the soul seeks expression and connection within the embrace of nature and art.
Knightly Legends of Wales; or, The Boy's Mabinogion Being the Earliest Welsh Tales of King Arthur in the Famous Red Book of Hergest
"Knightly Legends of Wales; or, The Boy's Mabinogion" by Sidney Lanier is a collection of ancient Welsh tales centered around the legendary figure of King Arthur, likely written in the late 19th century. This compilation aims to bring forth the earliest tales of the Mabinogion, presenting action-packed adventures and chivalric themes catering specifically to a young audience. With vibrant characters such as King Arthur and the noble knights of his court, the book invokes a sense of wonderment and honor through its classic narratives. The opening of the collection introduces readers to the context of the Mabinogion, emphasizing its roots in the 14th-century manuscript known as The Red Book of Hergest. Lanier provides an engaging introduction that underscores the significance of these tales, presenting them as fragments of Welsh culture that shape notions of heroism and chivalry. In the narrative, we meet King Arthur resting in his chamber, where his companions, including Owain and Kai, engage in storytelling—a ritual that sets the stage for the legendary adventures and moral dilemmas that will unfold throughout the book. This lively start entices readers with a taste of Arthurian legend, promising an exploration of the fascinating interplay between bravery, magic, and the age-old quest for honor.
The English Novel and the Principle of its Development
"The English Novel and the Principle of its Development" by Sidney Lanier is a critical work written in the late 19th century. The book is based on a series of public lectures that explore the significance of the novel as a literary form, discussing its evolution and its relationship to modern society. Lanier delves into broader ideas regarding literary forms and aims to elucidate how the novel has become a dominant means of expression in contemporary culture. The opening of the text sets the stage by outlining Lanier's intentions to analyze the novel not just analytically but rather synthetically, from the perspective of literary art. He contrasts this approach with his earlier work on poetry and emphasizes the importance of understanding the novel's role in modern life. He argues that the novel, much like other forms of prose, is a product of its time, shaped by the increasing complexity of human personality and social interactions. Lanier highlights the transformative power of the novel, which serves both virtuous and vice-ridden narratives, illustrating its profound impact on readers and society as a whole.
Bob: The Story of Our Mocking-bird
"Bob: The Story of Our Mocking-bird" by Sidney Lanier is a heartfelt account written in the late 19th century, reflecting the unique bond between humans and nature, particularly through the lens of a pet mockingbird named Bob. This book blends elements of memoir and natural history, showcasing not only the life of the charming bird but also illustrating the author's poetic sensibility and detailed observations of avian behavior. The narrative centralizes on themes of companionship and the joy of nurturing a creature while grappling with concepts of freedom and captivity. In the book, Bob, the mockingbird, is rescued as a fledgling and becomes a cherished member of the Lanier household. The narrative unfolds through Bob’s development from a vulnerable hatchling into a lively and expressive bird full of personality. Highlighted are his artistic abilities and emotional depth, shown through his songs and interactions with other birds and family members. Lanier compares Bob to literary figures like Sir Philip Sidney and Don Quixote, drawing parallels between the bird's gallantry and the noble qualities displayed by humans. Bob’s life in captivity leads to poignant reflections on freedom, creativity, and the artist's struggle. Ultimately, the book serves as a tribute to the bond between the Laniers and their beloved mockingbird and poses philosophical questions about the value of artistic expression and companionship.
Poem Outlines
"Poem Outlines" by Sidney Lanier is a collection of poetic fragments and outlines likely penned during the late 19th century. The book plays with the idea of unfinished art, showcasing Lanier's reflections on nature, humanity, and the process of creation itself. It serves as a glimpse into Lanier's creative mind, as he experiments with various ideas that never fully materialized into complete poems. The content of "Poem Outlines" includes a variety of poetic sketches, musings, and ideas captured during moments of inspiration. These fragments range from deep philosophical inquiries about existence and the divine to vivid imagery of nature, reflecting Lanier's profound engagement with the natural world. The outlines reveal his thoughts on the relationship between man, art, and nature, as well as the struggles of an artist in capturing fleeting moments of beauty and meaning. Overall, this collection offers a unique insight into the poetic process and the inherent challenges that come with artistic expression.