Subject
Poets, English -- 18th century -- Biography Books
Best books
William Cowper
The Works of William Cowper His life, letters, and poems, now first completed by the introduction of Cowper's private correspondence
"The Works of William Cowper" by William Cowper is a comprehensive collection of the poet's life, letters, and poetry, likely compiled in the mid-19th century. This edition provides readers with not only Cowper's well-known poetic works but also his private correspondence, which offers insight into his thoughts, beliefs, and the contexts surrounding his writing. Cowper's works address themes of personal and national concern, infusing humor alongside gravity while intertwining his deep Christian convictions. At the start of this edition, the introductory remarks emphasize the significance of Cowper's contributions to literature, particularly during a tumultuous time in society. The editor reflects on the necessity of balancing amusement and instruction in literature, proposing that Cowper achieves this balance exceptionally well through his wit and moral depth. Additionally, the dedication pays homage to Lady Throckmorton, underscoring her connection to Cowper and her role in the preservation of his memory. This initial section sets the stage for a deeper exploration into Cowper's life and the reflective contents of his correspondence, suggesting a narrative that intertwines literary merit with personal reflection against the backdrop of the political climate of his time.
Arthur Symons
William Blake
"WILLIAM BLAKE" by Arthur Symons is a biographical study written in the early 20th century. This work examines the life, artistic achievements, and philosophical ideas of the renowned poet and artist William Blake, providing a comprehensive account drawn from various contemporary sources. It delves into Blake's profound impact on literature and art, discussing his unique vision that challenges conventional morality and societal norms, while also capturing his creative process. The opening of the biography introduces the author’s inspiration to write it, stemming from his longtime admiration for Blake's poetry and the desire to explore the deeper meanings behind his works. Symons outlines his goal to present not only his own interpretations of Blake’s life and contributions but also to provide verbatim accounts from historical documents and contemporary records. The beginning emphasizes Blake’s role as a visionary artist whose thoughts on morality, the imagination, and the spiritual world resonate with both past and modern ideals, particularly drawing connections to Nietzsche's philosophies and Blake's concept of the imagination being the gateway to a higher reality.
Samuel Johnson
The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 08 The Lives of the Poets, Volume II
"The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. in Nine Volumes, Volume 08" by Samuel Johnson is a collection of literary criticism and biographical accounts written in the early 19th century. This volume primarily focuses on "The Lives of the English Poets," detailing the lives and works of various poets including Prior, Congreve, and others. The text delves into their historical contexts, literary contributions, and offers insights into their personal experiences and public perceptions." "The opening of the volume begins by presenting an overview of Matthew Prior, exploring his rise from obscurity to prominence as a poet and statesman. It describes his early life, education at Cambridge, and notable works such as "The City Mouse and Country Mouse." The narrative outlines his political engagements, including roles under royal patronage, while also touching on the challenges he faced, including public scrutiny and rivalries with established poets like Dryden. Johnson's eloquent prose sets the tone for a series of character studies on the poets featured in the volume, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of their contributions to English literature."
Algernon Charles Swinburne
William Blake: A Critical Essay
"William Blake: A Critical Essay" by Algernon Charles Swinburne is a literary critique written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a comprehensive examination of the life and works of the visionary poet and artist William Blake, highlighting his unique contributions to art and literature. The author draws on Blake’s lesser-known designs and poems to illuminate the depth of his genius and the challenges he faced in gaining recognition during his lifetime. The opening of the essay introduces Blake’s life and legacy, emphasizing his struggle against conventional expectations of art and poetry. Swinburne paints a vivid picture of Blake as a passionate and unconventional figure whose ideas were often ahead of his time. He reflects on Blake’s deep and sometimes chaotic spirituality, his revolutionary artistic expressions, and the complex relationships he maintained with other artists and critics of his era. The narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Blake’s lyrical and prophetic writings, indicating that there is much more to his work than a surface-level interpretation might suggest.
G. K. (Gilbert Keith) Chesterton
William Blake
"William Blake" by G. K. Chesterton is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life and artistry of the English poet and painter William Blake, focusing on his unique philosophical and artistic perspectives. It delves into Blake's complex character, his visions, and the intricate relationship between his life experiences and his artistic output. The opening of the biography outlines some philosophical premises about how to approach Blake's story, suggesting that a biography should start with universal themes rather than mere facts. Chesterton frames Blake's life as a unique intersection of mysticism and practicality, pointing out that while he was a man engaged with the normalities of his environment, he was also deeply eccentric. The narrative moves from Blake's childhood, touching on formative experiences that shaped his visionary perspective, to recount his initial artistic achievements and his distinctive approach to life as both an engraver and poet. The introduction sets a tone that blends analytical observation with a sense of reverence for Blake's art, hinting at the more profound exploration of his mystical experiences to come.
Richard Garnett
William Blake, Painter and Poet
"William Blake, Painter and Poet" by Richard Garnett is a biographical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life, work, and unique artistic vision of William Blake, highlighting his dual legacy as both a painter and a poet. Garnett positions Blake as an exceptional figure in the history of art and literature, whose contributions have had lasting significance, particularly due to his integration of visual art and poetry. The opening of the biography introduces readers to William Blake's unconventional status among artists, emphasizing that his poetry rivals his painting in both merit and recognition. The narrative begins with personal insights into Blake's early life, including his background, education, and formative experiences that shaped his creative genius. It also touches on his mystical visions and innovative techniques, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his artistic output and spiritual philosophy. Overall, the beginning conveys the complexity of Blake as not only a creative force but also a visionary whose works reflect profound insights into existence and the human experience.
Leslie Stephen
Alexander Pope
"Alexander Pope" by Leslie Stephen is a biographical account written in the late 19th century. This work explores the life, influences, and literary contributions of the renowned English poet Alexander Pope, known for his satirical verse and reflections on society. The book seeks to provide insights into Pope's significance within the literary canon, particularly examining the early years that shaped his career. The opening of this biography sets the stage for understanding Pope's formative years. It details his family background, emphasizing his Catholic upbringing amidst societal challenges facing Catholics in England at that time. From his childhood experiences in Binfield and his precocious intellectual pursuits to the nurturing household dynamics, it outlines the early influences that prepared him for a future in literature. The narrative begins to sketch out the trials and triumphs Pope encountered as he pursued his ambition to become a celebrated poet, hinting at the complexities of his character and the societal constraints that shaped his worldview.
Joseph Addison
The Poetical Works of Addison; Gay's Fables; and Somerville's Chase With Memoirs and Critical Dissertations, by the Rev. George Gilfillan
"The Poetical Works of Addison; Gay's Fables; and Somerville's Chase" by Joseph Addison et al. is a collection of poetry and fables published in the mid-19th century. This anthology features the works of notable poets such as Joseph Addison and John Gay, as well as William Somerville, reflecting the poetic styles and themes of the early 18th century. The book encompasses a variety of poetic forms, including odes, songs, and translations, which explore themes of nature, heroism, and the human experience. The opening portion of the work begins with a detailed table of contents outlining the various contributions from Addison, Gay, and Somerville. It highlights Addison's diverse poems, including tributes to contemporary poets, patriotic verses, and translations from classical sources. The segment also introduces the lives of the poets, emphasizing Addison's literary influence and the profound themes woven throughout his poetry. The style of the initial poems displays Addison's admiration for classical tradition while also capturing the essence of his contemporary society, revealing a blend of personal reflection and broader cultural commentary.
Alfred Ainger
English Men of Letters: Crabbe
"English Men of Letters: Crabbe" by Alfred Ainger is a biographical examination of the life and works of the poet George Crabbe, written in the early 20th century. The book explores Crabbe's life from his humble beginnings in Aldeburgh through his struggles in London to his eventual recognition as a poet. It delves into themes of social realism and poetry's relationship with human compassion, alongside Crabbe's influences and literary contemporaries. The opening of this volume provides an overview of Crabbe's early life, revealing his formative years marked by hardship and a growing love for literature. It discusses his family's impoverished conditions, his education, and early aspirations to become a physician, which ultimately shifted towards writing. The narrative paints a vivid picture of his upbringing—describing a decaying seaport town—and the socio-economic challenges Crabbe faced. It highlights key influences in his life, such as his family's efforts to cultivate his literary talents and the connections he made that would later support his entrance into the literary world. The text sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Crabbe's poetry, particularly his portrayal of the struggles and realities of the poor, positioning him within the broader context of 18th-century English literature.
Goldwin Smith
Cowper
"Cowper" by Goldwin Smith is a biographical exploration written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the life of William Cowper, an influential English poet known for his poignant contributions to the literary world between the time of Alexander Pope and the Romantic poets that followed, such as Wordsworth and Byron. It examines Cowper's role in shaping poetry towards greater authenticity and emotional depth while also highlighting his connections to the Evangelical movement, as well as his mental health struggles and personal relationships. The opening of the book introduces Cowper's early life, emphasizing his privileged background and the significant losses he faced, particularly the death of his mother at a young age. It outlines the harsh realities of his childhood experiences, including his time at boarding school, the bullying he endured, and his struggle with mental illness later in life. The passage also foreshadows Cowper's eventual retreat into a life of literary seclusion and highlights his early friendships and influences, setting the stage for a deeper examination of his poetic works and the profound impact of his personal challenges on his creative expression.
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