The Future of English Poetry

Name: The Future of English Poetry
Author: Edmund Gosse

By Edmund Gosse

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About This Book

The essay reflects on how English poetry may develop over the coming century, arguing that verse will persist but face growing difficulty in finding fresh, simple expression as successive schools exhaust available language and form. It likens poetic movements to waves that rise with novelty and break into formula, warns that conventionalized diction will push future poets toward more daring technique, and suggests that smaller vernacular literatures may retain clearer lyric resources. The tone balances cautious optimism about poetry's resilience with a sober account of the pressures that will shape originality and style.

About the Author

Edmund Gosse

Edmund Gosse (1849-1928) was an English poet, author, and critic known for his insightful literary criticism and biographical works. He was a prominent figure in the literary scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing significantly to the understanding of contemporary literature. His notable works include "Father and Son: A Study of Two Temperaments," which explores the complex relationship between him and his father, and "Gossip in a Library," a collection of essays reflecting on various literary figures. Gosse's writings often blend personal reflection with broader cultural commentary, making him a key voice in the literary heritage of his time.