Book description
A. E. Housman, being one of the most famous and widely read poets of
the early twentieth century, is certainly worthy of praise. His
'Collected Poems' are therefore a valuable read because they allow
readers to gain an impression of the author's mind, opinions and
lifestyle. Furthermore, they simultaneously depict a man who was deeply
pessimistic and obsessed with death, and, on the other hand, illustrate
a man who was also very much concerned with love, youth, life and the
fleetingness of the these concepts. It is easy to understand why
Housman's sensitive and sympathetic depictions of heroic English
soldiers influenced and affected his readers, as his poetry is often
written in an uncomplicated, yet sensitive style, which allows readers
to feel as if they are witnessing events almost as the poet writes them
down. These poems are also intriguing to read if you are a Shakespeare
fan, as it is possible to spot many Shakespeare references in Housman's
writing. A glossary or footnotes at the back of this book would be
appreciated in any further editions, in order to allow readers to gain
more understanding of the other poets and authors that Housman was
influenced by. In brief, this collection presents the literary
highlights of Housman's career, and this will be most appreciated by
readers new to Housman's poetry.
