Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a name synonymous with American poetry, remains a prominent figure in the literary landscape. His influence in the 19th century was unparalleled, achieving both national and international acclaim. Honored in Westminster Abbey’s Poets’ Corner, Longfellow’s legacy continues to resonate, even amidst shifting literary trends. This article explores the life and works of H.W. Longfellow, examining his contributions to American literature and the lasting impact of his poetry.
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Early Life and Influences: From Portland to Europe
Born in Portland, Maine, in 1807, Longfellow’s childhood was steeped in the maritime atmosphere of the coastal city. His early education, combined with his family’s literary inclinations, fostered a love for language and storytelling. Attending Bowdoin College alongside Nathaniel Hawthorne and Franklin Pierce, Longfellow’s literary ambition solidified, encouraged by literary societies and early publications in local newspapers and magazines. His journey towards a literary career, however, wasn’t without its challenges. While his father envisioned a career in law, Longfellow’s passion for literature led him to pursue a professorship in modern languages at Bowdoin. This pursuit took him on his first European sojourn, a formative experience that broadened his linguistic skills and exposed him to a diverse range of literary influences.
Shaping a Poetic Voice: From Academia to Acclaim
Returning to Bowdoin, Longfellow found the academic routine stifling. His writing during this period focused primarily on textbooks and scholarly essays, though his poetic aspirations remained. An opportunity arose when he was invited to succeed George Ticknor as Smith Professor of Modern Languages at Harvard. This prompted a second European trip, during which Longfellow delved into Scandinavian languages and German literature, further enriching his poetic palette. Tragedy struck during this trip with the loss of his first wife, Mary Potter Longfellow. This profound loss, coupled with an unrequited love for Frances Appleton, deeply influenced Longfellow’s poetry, imbuing it with a melancholic yet hopeful tone.
The Rise of a Literary Icon: Evangeline, Hiawatha, and Beyond
The years following his second European trip saw Longfellow’s poetic voice truly blossom. Works like “A Psalm of Life” resonated with audiences, offering solace and inspiration. He published collections such as Voices of the Night and Ballads and Other Poems, showcasing his versatility in narrative and lyrical forms. His third marriage, to Frances Appleton, brought personal happiness and inspired poems like “The Arsenal at Springfield” and “The Old Clock on the Stairs”. Longfellow’s literary output continued to flourish with works like Evangeline, A Tale of Acadie, a sweeping verse romance that captivated readers with its sentimental narrative and evocative descriptions of place. The Song of Hiawatha, drawing on Native American lore and traditions, cemented Longfellow’s status as a national poet, despite attracting some controversy.
Later Years and Legacy: A Poet’s Enduring Influence
Longfellow’s later years were marked by both personal loss and continued literary achievement. The tragic death of Frances Appleton in a fire accident deeply affected him, but he persevered, translating Dante’s Divine Comedy and publishing works like Tales of a Wayside Inn. While his later dramatic poems, like Christus: A Mystery, didn’t achieve the same widespread popularity, Longfellow continued to write and publish poetry until his death in 1882. His legacy extends beyond his individual works. He helped elevate the status of poetry in American society, demonstrating the possibility of a successful literary career. His influence on subsequent generations of poets is undeniable, and his works, though subject to evolving critical perspectives, remain a testament to his enduring contribution to American literature.
Conclusion: Longfellow’s Timeless Appeal
H.W. Longfellow’s poetry, characterized by its lyrical beauty, narrative power, and exploration of diverse themes, continues to resonate with readers today. While critical perspectives have shifted over time, his contribution to American literature remains significant. From the evocative imagery of his narrative poems to the heartfelt emotion of his lyrical verses, Longfellow’s work continues to invite readers to explore the depths of human experience and the power of poetic expression. His legacy as a beloved bard, honored both at home and abroad, solidifies his place as a cornerstone of American poetry.