Algernon Charles Swinburne (5 April 1837 – 10 April 1909) was a poet, playwright, and author from England. He is known for his book Poems and Ballads, a collection of poetry.
Books by Algernon Charles Swinburne*
Fun Facts about Algernon Charles Swinburne:
- Algernon Charles Swinburne was born in Grosvenor Place, London, England. His father, Charles Henry Swinburne was a professional soldier who retired as an Admiral. His mother, Lady Jane Henrietta, came from a wealthy family and was the daughter of the 3rd Earl of Ashburnham.
- Even though he was the eldest of his five siblings, young Algernon was frail and nervous, but he had lots of energy.
- He spent much time with his cousin, author Mary Gordon. She lived on the Isle of Wight, which was close and together they collaborated on her second book, Children of the Chapel.
- Swinburne started writing poetry at Eton College and even won prizes in French and Italian.
- We know that Mr. Swinburne was an alcoholic and a masochist, it seems he derived great pleasure from being flogged. His sexual preferences influenced his work and while delighting some, shocked many.
- French writer Guy de Maupassant saved Algernon Charles Swinburne from drowning.
- The poet’s work celebrated republicanism and revolutionary causes. He even dedicated a poem to Victor Hugo, one of the writers who greatly influenced him.
- He was very popular in England during his lifetime, however, Mr. Swinburne popularity increased after his death.
- Algernon Charles Swinburne contributed Encyclopedia Britannica’s eleventh edition.
- Along with his poems and novels, Mr. Swinburne had a large, and influential body of literary criticism which impressed many including T. S. Eliot.
Books by Algernon Charles Swinburne*
Zohar — Man of la Book
*Amazon links point to an affiliate account, the money is usually spent on books
Sources:
10 Algernon Charles Swinburne Poems Everyone Should Read | Interesting Literature
Algernon Charles Swinburne | poets.org
Algernon Charles Swinburne | Wikipedia
Algernon Charles Swinburne: English poet | Britannica
