Edward Thomas (poet)

Edward Thomas (March 3, 1878 - April 9, 1917) was one of the best-known English poets of World War I.

Related Topics:
March 3 - 1878 - April 9 - 1917 - English poet - World War I

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Thomas was of Welsh extraction but was born in London as Philip Edward Thomas. He was educated at Battersea Grammar School, St. Paul's School and Lincoln College, Oxford. He was already a seasoned writer before the outbreak of war, and had worked as a journalist before becoming a poet, with the encouragement of Robert Frost. He initially published some poetry under the name Edward Eastaway. He also wrote a novel and some works of non-fiction.

Related Topics:
Welsh - London - Lincoln College, Oxford - Journalist - Poet - Robert Frost - Novel

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When war broke out, Thomas joined the Artists' Rifles, despite being a mature married man who could have avoided enlisting. In fact, few of his poems deal directly with his war experiences. His poems are noted for their attention to the English countryside. He was killed in action at Arras on April 9, 1917, soon after he arrived in France.

Related Topics:
Artists' Rifles - Arras - April 9 - 1917

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A short poem of Thomas's serves as an example of how he blends war and countryside throughout his poetry:

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In Memoriam

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:The flowers left thick at nightfall in the wood

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:This Eastertide call into mind the men,

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:Now far from home, who, with their sweethearts, should

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:Have gathered them and will do never again.

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