W.H. Auden was not only a prominent poet but also an influential author and playwright. His literary contributions shaped the landscape of 20th-century literature, making him a key figure in the literary canon. With a unique ability to write in various verse forms, Auden's work often reflected the tumultuous political climates of the times he lived in, drawing inspiration from his travels to conflict-ridden countries. His remarkable talent earned him the Pulitzer Prize in 1948, solidifying his legacy as a literary giant.
Born on February 21, 1907, in York, England, Auden experienced a rigorous upbringing that fostered his intellectual pursuits. He initially studied science and engineering at Oxford University but soon discovered his passion for writing, leading him to switch his major to English. This pivotal change marked the beginning of a prolific career that would span several decades and multiple genres, including poetry, plays, and essays.
Throughout his life, Auden was not just a passive observer of the world; he actively engaged with the political and social issues of his time. His poetry often serves as a mirror to the struggles and challenges faced by society, showcasing his deep empathy and understanding of the human experience. As we explore his life and works, we gain insight into the mind of a poet who not only captured the essence of his era but also influenced future generations of writers.
Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Wystan Hugh Auden |
| Birth Year | 1907 |
| Birth Date | February 21, 1907 |
| Birth City | York, England |
| Birth Country | United Kingdom |
| Death Year | 1973 |
| Death Date | September 29, 1973 |
| Death City | Vienna |
| Death Country | Austria |
| Gender | Male |
| Best Known For | Leading literary figure in the 20th century |
Table of Contents
Who Was W.H. Auden?
W.H. Auden was a poet, author, and playwright. Auden was a leading literary influencer in the 20th century. Known for his chameleon-like ability to write poems in almost every verse form, Auden's travels in countries torn by political strife influenced his early works. He won the Pulitzer Prize in 1948.
Early Life
W.H. Auden was born Wystan Hugh Auden in York, England, on February 21, 1907. Raised by a physician father and a strict Anglican mother, Auden pursued science and engineering at Oxford University before finding his calling to write and switching his major to English.
Career Success
In 1930, with the help of T.S. Eliot, Auden published another collection of the same name, "Poems," which featured different content. The success of this collection positioned him as one of the leading influencers in literature in the 20th century.
Personal Life
Auden wed Erika Mann, daughter of German novelist Thomas Mann, in 1935. The nuptial did not last, as it was a marriage of convenience for her to gain British citizenship and flee Nazi Germany.
Quick Facts
- Name: W.H. Auden
- Birth Year: 1907
- Death Year: 1973
- Best Known For: British poet, author, and playwright
Quotes
- “Among those whom I like or admire, I can find no common denominator, but among those whom I love, I can: All of them make me laugh.”
- “A poet is, before anything else, a person who is passionately in love with language.”
- “Poetry might be defined as the clear expression of mixed feelings.”
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