Poems & Ballads (First Series)

Name: Poems & Ballads (First Series)
Author: Algernon Charles Swinburne

By Algernon Charles Swinburne

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British Literature Poetry

About This Book

A varied collection of lyric and narrative poems that probe intense emotion and sensual desire, often invoking classical myth, pagan imagery, and natural symbolism. Voices shift between intimate confession, dramatic monologue, and balladic storytelling, pairing delicate lyricism with occasionally transgressive imagery. Recurring concerns include love and loss, corporeal and spiritual longing, mortality, and resistance to conventional religious and moral authority. Formal experiments in meter and stanza unite musical phrasing with rhetorical force to examine beauty, pain, and aesthetic defiance.

About the Author

Algernon Charles Swinburne

Algernon Charles Swinburne (1837-1909) was an English poet, playwright, and novelist known for his lyrical and often controversial works. A prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene, he is celebrated for his innovative use of meter and form, particularly in his poetry collections such as "Poems & Ballads." Swinburne's themes often explore love, nature, and the human condition, infused with a sense of rebellion against societal norms. His notable plays, including "Atalanta in Calydon" and "Chastelard," showcase his dramatic talents and deep engagement with classical themes. Swinburne's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on English literature, influencing subsequent generations of poets.