T.S. Eliot Biography
Four Quartets
"Four Quartets," published in 1943, is a series of four long poems that reflect Eliot's mature style and philosophical insights. It is regarded as one of his greatest achievements.
T.S. Eliot's Birth and Early Life
Born on September 26, 1888, in St. Louis, Missouri, T.S. Eliot was educated at Smith Academy in St. Louis, Milton Academy in Massachusetts, and Harvard University. His early education laid the foundation for his illustrious career in literature.
Eliot's Marriages
Eliot married Vivienne Haigh-Wood in 1915, a union that influenced his work "The Waste Land." After their separation, he married Valerie Fletcher in 1957, who preserved his literary legacy until her death in 2012.
T.S. Eliot's Awards
Eliot received numerous accolades, including the 1948 Nobel Prize in Literature, the British Order of Merit, the 1950 Tony Award for Best Play for "The Cocktail Party," and the 1964 Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Literary Criticism and Publishing
Eliot was a renowned literary critic, contributing around 100 reviews and articles between 1916 and 1921. He also served as an editor for the Criterion journal (1922-1939) and was a director at Faber & Faber (1925-1965).
Eliot's Conversion and Influences
Eliot's conversion to Anglo-Catholicism and his decision to settle in Europe were pivotal in shaping his poetic and personal life. His connections with Ezra Pound and other literary figures were instrumental in his development.
Anti-Semitism in Eliot's Work
Eliot's poetry and lectures have been criticized for containing anti-Semitic language, with works like "Gerontion" serving as primary sources for such allegations.
The Waste Land
Published in 1922, "The Waste Land" is one of Eliot's most notable works, known for its complex structure and profound themes. The poem is considered a landmark in 20th-century literature.
Death and Legacy
T.S. Eliot died from complications related to emphysema in 1965, leaving behind a profound legacy in literature.
"The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock"
Written in 1910-1911 and published in Poetry magazine, "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" is one of Eliot's most famous early poems, marking a significant moment in modern literature.
