New Poems (ePub)

Francis Thompson (1859-1907) was an English poet and essayist, celebrated for his intense poetic style and spiritual interrogation of the human and divine. Born in Preston, Lancashire, to a Catholic family, Thompson studied medicine at Owens College, Manchester, but eventually abandoned the profession to pursue his true calling in literature. His works frequently grappled with themes of addiction, poverty, and spirituality, which were partly autobiographical. Thompson's most famous poem, 'The Hound of Heaven', epitomizes his stylistic triumphs, metaphorically recounting the pursuit of the human soul by a loving God. This tormented genius also brought forth 'New Poems' (1897), which included renewed lyrical explorations and is considered a testament to his evolving poetic endeavors. Although addiction and illness shadowed his life, Thompson's work was influential, attracting admiration from G.K. Chesterton and J.R.R. Tolkien, among others. His poetry is characterized by lush imagery, a deep sense of mysticism, and an intricate rhyme scheme, all of which place him amongst the Pre-Raphaelite poets in spirit, if not in temporal association. Thompson's work remains a source of scholarly interest for those seeking to explore the complexities of Victorian spirituality and the rich tapestry of 19th-century English poetry.