Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844–1889) was an English poet and Jesuit priest renowned for his innovative use of Prosody and vivid Imagery. His seminal works, including "The Windhover" and "Pied Beauty," significantly influenced modernist Poetry. Hopkins' concept of "sprung Rhythm" and his Exploration of Nature and Religion marked a distinct departure from traditional Victorian poetry. His writings, though published posthumously, continue to resonate as monumental contributions to English Literature.
Anecdotes
- Experimented with unique poetic techniques, creating what he called "sprung rhythm." Burned many of his early poems due to a deep Religious conversion, believing them incompatible with his faith. Posthumously famous; his Work was largely unpublished during his lifetime, transforming literary History long after his Death.
- Converted to Catholicism against his Family's wishes, deeply impacting his career and relationships. Became a Jesuit priest, regularly balancing rigorous religious Duties with his Passion for poetry. Diagnosed with melancholia, yet his works often reflect a profound Appreciation for the natural World.
- He once burned all his early poems upon deciding to join the Jesuit Order, committing fully to his religious vocation before later resuming his literary pursuits.
Magnitudes
- Embrace the Tension between faith and Doubt.
- Embrace the struggle; it fuels your Genius.
- Seek beauty in the mundane and ordinary.
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