Poems Chiefly from Manuscript

by John Clare

Collection of poems by the English poet, in his time commonly known as "the Northamptonshire Peasant Poet". His descriptions of rural scenes show a keen and loving appreciation of nature; his knowledge of the natural world went far beyond that of the major Romantic poets, and his love-songs and ballads charm by their genuine feeling.

Genres: Poetry, Fiction

264 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1920

About the author

John Clare was an English poet, in his time commonly known as "the Northamptonshire Peasant Poet", born the son of a farm labourer at Helpston (which, at the time of his birth, was in the Soke of Peterborough, which itself was part of Northamptonshire) near Peterborough. His poetry underwent a major re-evaluation in the late 20th century and he is often now considered to be one of the most important 19th-century poets.

For other authors with this name see: psychotherapist and artist John Clare, history educator John D. Clare and John Clare.

Reviews

[Eleanor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't enjoy the early poems so much - they seemed too long to me and with basic rhyming schemes. However the Middle Period poems were of more interest, and the Asylum Poems were very good indeed. Sad to think of a man who loved the natural world so much and knew it so well, incarcerated in an asylum.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Introduction was in depth and insightful. Organisation of the collection was a little heavy. Clare's Asylum period has some interesting reads, but I think I prefer reading his poetry as stand-alones, not all in one go. Great for a free read.

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This volume may be obtained free from Project Gutenberg. Edmund Blunden is one of the editors and the collection is arranged chronologically in three sections: Early poems, Middle Period 1824-1836 and Asylum Poems. Some of the best work Clare did was in the period he spent in the asylum. The book also includes an introduction and interesting biographical information. The formatting is quite good.
The only problem is that one cannot navigate to a specific poem within the three sections. Still, it is easy to browse through them and bookmark individual works that appeal.
It is possible to purchase complete editions which do provide instant access to particular works and these collections are very cost effective. But the PG version is an excellent way to experience the range and beauty of Clare's output.
I use it frequently and keep a complete edition as well.

[Anne Tanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting details of John Clare’s life and love some of his poetry. Great for nature-lovers. Also sad how much wildlife familiar to Clare is rare or absent from our countryside now.