The Land of Heart's Desire

Name: The Land of Heart's Desire
Author: W. B. Yeats

By W. B. Yeats

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British Literature Mythology, Legends & Folklore Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A one-act drama set in a rural household on May Eve, where a young newlywed becomes absorbed in an old manuscript about the faery otherworld and is soon visited by a beguiling faery child who promises beauty and timelessness. Family members and the local priest attempt to restrain her, but she succumbs to the enchantment and departs the domestic sphere. The piece blends lyrical folklore with moral tension, examining longing, the pull of transcendence against ordinary duties, and the tragic cost of yielding to supernatural temptation.

About the Author

W. B. Yeats

William Butler Yeats (1865-1939) was an Irish poet, dramatist, and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature. A key figure in the Irish Literary Revival, Yeats's work often reflects his deep interest in mysticism, folklore, and the complexities of the human experience. His poetry is characterized by its lyrical beauty and philosophical depth, exploring themes of love, politics, and the passage of time. Notable works include "The Tower" and "The Second Coming," which showcase his innovative use of imagery and symbolism. Yeats was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923, cementing his legacy as a pivotal voice in modern poetry.