Author
W. B. (William Butler) Yeats
1865-1939
W. B. (William Butler) Yeats (1865-1939) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by W. B. (William Butler) Yeats
Poems
"Poems" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th to early 20th century. This anthology showcases Yeats's diverse exploration of themes such as love, identity, and the intersection of mythology and reality, reflecting his deep ties to Irish culture and heritage. Readers can expect a rich tapestry of lyrical expressions that convey both personal and national sentiments through Yeats’s unique voice. At the start of this collection, Yeats's prefaces introduce a reflection on his previous works, particularly plays like "The Countess Cathleen" and "The Land of Heart's Desire." He discusses the revisions he has made in these pieces to suit the theatrical context they were created for, and emphasizes his desire to capture the essence of Irish folklore and spirituality. Yeats also touches on the struggles with art and the complexities of the human experience, hinting at the blend of reality and fantasy that populates his poetry, establishing an intriguing premise for what follows in the collection.
The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 4 (of 8) The Hour-glass. Cathleen ni Houlihan. The Golden Helmet. The Irish Dramatic Movement
"The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 4 (of 8)" is a collection of plays and essays written in the early 20th century. This volume features notable works such as "The Hour-Glass," "Cathleen ni Houlihan," and "The Golden Helmet," reflecting on themes of morality, national identity, and the human experience through a blend of drama and the poetic form. Yeats captures the struggles of his characters, often rooted in Irish folklore and contemporary issues, inviting readers to explore the intricate landscape of early Irish theatre. The opening of the collection introduces "The Hour-Glass," a morality play that unfolds in a large room occupied by a Wise Man, who grapples with a profound lesson to be shared with his pupils. With the arrival of a Fool who seeks kindness and candor, the interplay between wisdom and folly is established. The Wise Man's quiet contemplation is abruptly challenged by the appearance of an angel, who delivers a harrowing message that he will die when the hourglass empties. Facing existential dread and the ultimate spiritual reckoning, the Wise Man desperately searches for belief among his students, revealing the tension between knowledge and faith in human understanding. This sets the stage for powerful explorations of belief, denial, and redemption that resonate throughout Yeats's work.
The Trembling of the Veil
"The Trembling of the Veil" by W. B. Yeats is a memoir written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the formative years of Yeats' life, capturing his experiences, relationships, and intellectual environment during the late 19th century, particularly his interactions with notable figures in the artistic and literary movements of the time. Through a vivid portrayal of his youth, the author reflects upon themes of art, identity, and the nature of genius, focusing on the artists, writers, and thinkers who influenced him. At the start of "The Trembling of the Veil," Yeats recollects his family's relocation to Bedford Park and his journey of self-discovery amidst the artistic community of London. He describes his childhood, his admiration for Pre-Raphaelite art, and the various personalities he encountered, such as W. E. Henley and Oscar Wilde. These relationships and their discussions significantly shaped his thoughts on artistic expression and culture. Yeats expresses his frustrations with emerging trends in art that he felt lacked depth and tradition, underscoring the tensions between past and present as he navigates his own burgeoning identity as a poet and thinker. This opening portion sets a reflective and introspective tone, inviting readers into the emotional landscape that defined Yeats' early creative life.
Ideas of Good and Evil
"Ideas of Good and Evil" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. This work explores a variety of themes, including poetry, symbolism, and the nature of popular literature, reflecting Yeats's profound engagement with Irish culture and literature as he grapples with the intersection of art and society. The essays are deeply philosophical, discussing not just the aesthetics of poetry but also the spiritual and cultural implications of literature. At the start of the book, the author delves into the concept of "popular poetry" and reflects on his earlier experiences within the Young Ireland Society. Yeats recalls discussions about Irish poets, expressing both admiration and critical awareness of their work’s romantic appeal versus its artistic merits. He articulates a desire to craft a new style of poetry that resonates with the Irish experience, distinct from English influences, while recognizing the challenges inherent in forging a cultural literary identity. This opening sets the stage for Yeats's exploration of deeper philosophies behind artistic expression and its connection to national identity, suggesting a complex relationship between creativity and folklore, politics, and spirituality.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of William Butler Yeats
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of William Butler Yeats" by W. B. Yeats is a comprehensive catalog of the various works of the renowned poet and dramatist, compiled during the early 21st century. This publication functions as an informational resource rather than a narrative work, providing readers with an organized reference to Yeats's extensive oeuvre, which encompasses plays, poems, and critical essays. It serves as a guide to understanding Yeats's contribution to literature, rooted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly emphasizing themes of Irish identity, folklore, and the evolving nature of poetry. The index includes various volumes of collected works, such as poetry, plays, and stories, showcasing Yeats's evolution as an artist. Notably, it covers significant pieces like "The Wind Among the Reeds," "The Wild Swans at Coole," and "The Celtic Twilight," each reflecting his deep engagement with mythology and the spiritual dimensions of human experience. The content outlines his exploration of love, loss, beauty, and the supernatural, alongside critical essays that delve into literary philosophy and the arts in Ireland. This index ultimately offers a structured pathway for enthusiasts and scholars to navigate the diverse and rich literary landscape that Yeats created throughout his prolific career.
The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 1 (of 8) Poems Lyrical and Narrative
"The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 1 (of 8)" is a collection of poetry and prose written in the late 19th to early 20th century. This work presents a rich tapestry of Yeats's lyrical expressions, exploring themes of love, beauty, mythology, and the human experience through various poetic forms. The volume is characterized by both its introspective nature and its reflections on nature and the mystical connections inherent in life. The opening of this collection introduces readers to a variety of poems that showcase Yeats's distinctive style. It begins with "The Hosting of the Sidhe," evoking an ethereal scene of the faery host in motion, accompanied by an exploration of timeless beauty and passion in works like "The Fisherman" and "The Song of Wandering Aengus." Other poems, such as "The Lover Tells of the Rose in His Heart," delve into themes of unrequited love and longing, setting a tone of bittersweet nostalgia. Throughout this initial section, readers are invited to traverse a world where the mystical and the real intertwine, filled with emotional depth and lyrical beauty, as Yeats weaves together personal and collective mythologies.
The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 8 (of 8) Discoveries. Edmund Spenser. Poetry and Tradition; and Other Essays. Bibliography
"The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 8 (of 8)" is a collection of essays and poetic writings likely penned in the early 20th century. This volume encompasses various writings by Yeats, which delve into the themes of art, poetry, tradition, and the cultural landscape of his time. It reflects on the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of human experience, exploring how art and literature are intertwined with the broader societal context. At the start of the volume, the opening portion introduces the context of a theatrical performance in a west of Ireland town, involving a company of players and a young priest who has invited them. Yeats observes the contrasting ambiance of the half-ruined ballroom where the play unfolds, juxtaposing it against the surrounding town and its artistic developments, such as altar sculptures created by Irish artists. The narrative reveals Yeats's critical engagement with contemporary drama and his expectations for art, expressing a dichotomy between the elevated aspirations for artistic expression and the sometimes disheartening realities of audience reception. Through reflections on the play's performance and the misalignment between heroic themes and the audience's engagement, Yeats establishes a profound meditation on the role of the artist and the essence of human experience in relation to the arts.
The Wind Among the Reeds
"The Wind Among the Reeds" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century. This work embodies Yeats's deep engagement with Irish folklore, mythology, and themes of love, beauty, and longing. It reflects on the human experience through the lens of nature and the supernatural, exploring the intersection of reality and the ethereal. Within this collection, Yeats presents a tapestry of characters and voices, often featuring figures drawn from myth, like Aengus and the Sidhe, and the struggles of various personas, such as Aedh and Hanrahan, against the backdrop of love and loss. The poems are rich with imagery, evoking a sense of place that intertwines with the emotional states of the speakers. They delve into themes of desire, regret, and the haunting beauty of the past, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with love and the ephemeral nature of life. Through lyrical language and symbolic depth, Yeats captures the universal quest for connection and understanding in a world filled with magical possibilities.
Per Amica Silentia Lunae
"Per Amica Silentia Lunae" by W. B. Yeats is a philosophical and poetic work, likely written in the early 20th century. It explores profound themes concerning art, the self, and spirituality through a series of reflective essays and dialogues. The title translates to "Through the Friendly Silence of the Moon," indicating a contemplative tone and an engagement with the mystical aspects of human experience and creativity. In this collection, Yeats delves into the nature of artistic creation, the inner workings of the mind, and the relationship between the individual and the universe. He discusses the struggles of the artist, citing historical figures and their quests for truth and beauty. The text oscillates between abstract concepts and personal reflection, suggesting that art is both a personal journey and a reflection of deeper universal truths. Through vivid imagery and contemplative prose, Yeats invites readers to engage with their own inner landscapes and to consider the spiritual dimensions of creativity and existence.
The Countess Cathleen
"The Countess Cathleen" by W. B. Yeats is a verse drama first published in 1892. Set during an Irish famine, the play tells the story of a noble countess who makes an extraordinary sacrifice to save her starving tenants from both hunger and spiritual damnation. Based on a purported Irish legend, Yeats's drama explores themes of selflessness and redemption. The work underwent extensive revisions over two decades, transforming from its original form into a refined piece suitable for the Abbey Theatre.
The Secret Rose
"The Secret Rose" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of tales and poetic narratives likely composed in the late 19th century. This work intertwines themes of spirituality and the natural order, reflecting Yeats's dedication to exploring the complexities of human emotions and the myriad experiences of its characters. The stories within, while varying in style and form, collectively grapple with the conflict between the spiritual and the mundane, often drawing on Irish folklore and mythology to enhance their depth. At the start of "The Secret Rose," Yeats provides a dedication to A.E., underscoring the intimate connection between the themes of the book and the shared understanding of the emotional struggles of its characters. The opening excerpts introduce a range of intriguing figures, including a gleeman named Cumhal, who faces scorn and cruelty from members of a religious order. His plight highlights the clash between artistic expression and societal oppression, effectively setting the tone for the mystical and often tragic narratives that follow. The opening sets in motion Yeats’s exploration of the forgotten and marginalized voices, giving readers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life, myth, and the pursuit of meaning in a world fraught with challenges.
Responsibilities, and other poems
"Responsibilities, and other poems" by W. B. Yeats is a poetry collection published in 1916. This work marks a dramatic shift from Yeats's earlier dreamlike Celtic verse to poems confronting harsh modern realities. The collection addresses political controversies, personal attacks, Dublin's 1913 workers' strike, and cultural battles. Opening with the enigmatic line "In dreams begins responsibility," Yeats announces a new direction—one where romantic Ireland gives way to unflinching engagement with contemporary life's conflicts and tensions.
The Celtic Twilight
"The Celtic Twilight" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of folklore and mystical tales written during the late 19th century. The work captures the essence of Irish culture, focusing on the supernatural aspects of life in Ireland, including faeries, spirits, and the rich tapestry of Irish mythology. Yeats draws from personal experiences and stories he has encountered, intertwining them with his contemplations of art, belief, and the nature of reality. At the start of the book, Yeats expresses his desire to create a small world populated by beautiful and significant elements of Irish culture as he describes his efforts to document the stories he has heard and observed. He introduces Paddy Flynn, a charismatic and eccentric old storyteller embodying the connection between the mundane and the mystical. Flynn shares tales of faerie encounters and peculiar happenings, emphasizing the pervasive belief in the supernatural within Irish folklore. Yeats also reflects on themes of belief and unreason, presenting a narrative texture that is at once autobiographical and steeped in the enchanting landscapes of Celtic legends, laying the groundwork for a richly imaginative exploration of Ireland’s cultural heritage.
Stories of Red Hanrahan
"Stories of Red Hanrahan" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of short stories published in 1897. The stories follow Owen Red Hanrahan, a red-haired hedge schoolmaster and wandering poet based on the Irish bard Owen Roe O'Sullivan. Rooted in Irish folklore and tradition, the tales trace Hanrahan's encounters with supernatural forces and mysterious women as he journeys through the countryside, particularly during significant moments like Samhain Eve, when the boundary between worlds grows thin.
The King's Threshold; and On Baile's Strand
"The King's Threshold; and On Baile's Strand" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of two plays written during the early 20th century. Both works explore themes rooted in Irish culture and mythology, centered around the poetic tradition and the tensions between art and authority. The plays reflect Yeats's desire to establish a distinctive Irish theatre that draws upon the richness of folklore and history. In "The King's Threshold," the story revolves around the conflict between the king and Seanchan, a revered poet who refuses to eat after being cast down from the king's table. The play delves into the essence of artistic pride and respect, illustrating how the absence of proper recognition for the arts leads to societal turmoil. In "On Baile's Strand," the tension intensifies with the arrival of a young warrior who is revealed to be Cuchullain's son, sent by the goddess Aoife to kill his father. Ultimately, it explores themes of fate, identity, and the tragic consequences of revenge within the context of heroic legend. Together, these plays demonstrate Yeats's deft blending of poetic language with profound philosophical inquiry, making a powerful statement about the role of the artist in society.
The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 5 (of 8) The Celtic Twilight and Stories of Red Hanrahan
"The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 5 (of 8)" is a collection of poetry and prose written in the late 19th to early 20th century. This volume features Yeats’s exploration of Irish folklore, myth, and spirituality, particularly focusing on themes surrounding the fae and the complexities of belief and artistry in Ireland. The work is notable for its rich imagery and introspective commentary on the nature of storytelling and existence. The opening of this volume sets a contemplative tone, as Yeats introduces "The Celtic Twilight," a tapestry of tales informed by the narratives he absorbed from the Irish countryside and its people. He reflects on his desire to create a world that encapsulates the beauty and significance of Ireland, intertwining personal beliefs with those of the peasantry. Yeats begins with a particular figure, Paddy Flynn, a genial old storyteller, whose tales of faeries, ghosts, and the charm of commonplace life ground the narrative in the deeply rooted folklore. Through Flynn’s accounts and Yeats’s poetic prose, readers are invited into a mystical realm where belief, memory, and the haunting beauty of the Irish landscape converge.
The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 7 (of 8) The Secret Rose. Rosa Alchemica. The Tables of the Law. The Adoration of the Magi. John Sherman and Dhoya
"The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 7 (of 8)" by William Butler Yeats is a collection of poetry, prose, and stories likely written in the early 20th century. This volume includes various works that explore themes of spirituality, Irish identity, and the conflict between the natural and the supernatural. It is a reflection of Yeats's deep engagement with Irish folklore, mythology, and the complexities of human experience, capturing the struggles between higher aspirations and earthly desires. At the start of this volume, readers are introduced to several pieces, beginning with "The Secret Rose," where Yeats emphasizes the mystical journey of the soul, hinting at the interplay of beauty and suffering. The opening portion includes a dedication to a fellow poet, asserting that the stories presented are unified in their exploration of spiritual conflicts. "The Crucifixion of the Outcast" introduces a gleeman named Cumhal, whose journey results in a poignant commentary on the nature of existence, highlighting themes of exile and the brutality faced by those at odds with societal norms, foreshadowing the intense emotional and philosophical explorations that define Yeats's oeuvre.
The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 2 (of 8) The King's Threshold. On Baile's Strand. Deirdre. Shadowy Waters
"The Collected Works in Verse and Prose of William Butler Yeats, Vol. 2 (of 8)" is a collection of dramatic works and poetry written in the early 20th century. This volume includes plays such as "The King's Threshold," "On Baile's Strand," and "Deirdre," showcasing Yeats's exploration of themes related to Irish mythology, cultural identity, and the interplay between art and society. The collection serves as a testament to Yeats's significant contributions to literature, particularly in the realm of poetic drama. The opening of "The King's Threshold" introduces the character Seanchan, a proud and revered poet who faces the consequences of a royal decree that has stripped him of his rightful place at the king's table. The narrative unfolds as King Guaire seeks to persuade Seanchan to eat and abandon his self-imposed starvation, motivated by the repercussions of their conflict on both their reputations. Through dialogues among Seanchan, his pupils, and the king's officials, themes of artistic integrity, societal values, and the struggles of the creative spirit are woven into the fabric of the story, setting the stage for an examination of the tensions between power, art, and personal dignity.
Rosa Alchemica
"Rosa Alchemica" by W. B. Yeats is a philosophical novel that explores themes of alchemy, spirituality, and the artist's pursuit of transcendence, likely written in the early 20th century. The book is centered around the protagonist's encounters with the enigmatic Michael Robartes and a secretive group seeking to understand and engage in alchemical practices as a means of transforming both self and society. It delves into mystical concepts and the search for a deeper, more meaningful existence through the lens of alchemical symbolism. In "Rosa Alchemica," the story unfolds as the narrator reflects on his past and recent interactions with Robartes, leading him into a world filled with ancient wisdom and metaphysical inquiry. As he grapples with the melancholy of separation from the divine beauty depicted in art and mythology, he is drawn into an alchemical order that promises transformation and spiritual awakening. The narrative blends personal introspection with vivid imagery of rituals and the mystical dance, emphasizing a conflict between the search for aesthetic pleasure and a longing for genuine spiritual connection. Through these experiences, the protagonist confronts the challenges of the human condition and the limitations of intellect and artistic expression in the quest for enlightenment.
The Hour Glass
"The Hour-Glass" by W. B. Yeats is a morality play written in the early 20th century. This theatrical work delves into themes of belief, doubt, and the existential crisis faced by a wise man as he confronts his impending death. The narrative reflects the philosophical inquiries characteristic of Yeats' writing, showcasing the tension between knowledge and faith. The story centers around a wise man who, having taught his pupils to renounce belief in spiritual and metaphysical concepts, is confronted by an angel. The angel informs him that he will die when the last grains of sand fall from an hourglass. In his desperation to avoid death and secure a place in heaven, the wise man seeks someone who believes to save him, realizing too late that he himself has lost faith. Despite his efforts to convince his pupils and even his wife to believe, he finds that they have all adopted his skeptical views. Ultimately, only the Fool, who embodies a kind of innocent wisdom, possesses the belief necessary to redeem the wise man's soul. The play concludes with poignant reflections on faith and the potential for redemption, even in the face of imminent death.
The tower
"The Tower" by W. B. Yeats is a poetry collection published in 1928. This influential volume, Yeats's first major work after winning the Nobel Prize, takes its name from Ballylee Castle, a Norman tower the poet purchased and restored. The collection explores themes of physical limitation and spiritual transcendence as Yeats seeks to move beyond the conflicts between mind and body, reality and vision. It includes some of his most celebrated poems, such as "Sailing to Byzantium," "Leda and the Swan," and "Among School Children."
Michael Robartes and the dancer
"Michael Robartes and the Dancer" by W. B. Yeats is a poetry collection written in the early 20th century. This work showcases Yeats' intricate exploration of themes such as love, beauty, and the nature of existence, weaving philosophical musings with vivid imagery. Yeats's poetry delves into the complexities of human relationships and the interplay of the physical and metaphysical realms, reflecting the intellectual currents of his time. The collection features a dialogue between two main characters, Michael Robartes and his love interest, as they engage in deep discussions about knowledge, desire, and the essence of beauty. Through a series of individual poems, Yeats examines their struggles and conflicts, alongside reflections on political and social issues, particularly in the context of Ireland's tumultuous history around the time of the 1916 Easter Rising. The work transitions from intimate conversations to broader contemplations, ultimately portraying the dualities of existence and the pursuit of truth in an ever-changing world. Complex and richly layered, this collection invites readers to ponder the weight of emotional and philosophical explorations central to the human experience.
The Cutting of an Agate
"The Cutting of an Agate" by William Butler Yeats is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The work primarily addresses themes related to Irish literature, theatre, and the cultural identity of Ireland, reflecting on the influence of myth and folklore in shaping artistic expression. Through discussions of prominent figures such as Cuchulain and the Fianna, Yeats delves into the unique narrative style of Irish storytelling, illuminating its lyrical qualities and emotional depth. The opening of this collection presents Yeats reflecting on the impact of Irish storytelling traditions and their relationship to the larger cultural landscape. He contrasts the robust and imaginative nature of Irish myths with the logical and historical narratives favored by other traditions, emphasizing the emotional resonance and communal spirit found in stories of legendary heroes like Cuchulain. Yeats draws upon his experiences and observations of the Irish theatre community, articulating a vision for a new artistic expression rooted in the richness of Irish folklore, while also critiquing contemporary literature and its disconnection from profound emotional truths. This opening sets the stage for a broader examination of how artistic forms can encapsulate cultural and historical identities, revealing insights that resonate with both the past and present.
The Green Helmet and Other Poems
"The Green Helmet and Other Poems" by William Butler Yeats is a collection of poetic works written in the early 20th century. This book features a blend of lyrical poems, dramatic pieces, and an iconic play, incorporating themes of love, heroism, tragedy, and the complexities of human relationships. The collection stands as a reflection of Yeats' mastery in exploring the intertwined nature of people's emotions and the mythical past of Ireland. The poems within "The Green Helmet" delve into various aspects of the human experience, often focusing on love's tumultuous nature, the inevitability of death, and the interplay between the individual and society. Yeats uses rich imagery and symbolism to communicate profound ideas. In the title poem, "The Green Helmet," a mythological narrative unfolds, centering around the hero Cuchulain and his encounters with friends and foes. The collection also features poetic reflections on youth, wisdom, and the struggles of intimacy. Through lively character interactions and emotional depth, Yeats captures the universal quest for meaning amidst eternal themes of honor, fate, and personal identity.