Selected Poems

by Thomas Chatterton, Grevel Lindop (Editor)

Including introductions to Chatterton's life, technique, and reputation, this selection shows the historical significance and unexpected range of his poetry, which spans the genres of satire, elegy, lyric, narrative verse, and poetic drama.

Genres: Poetry, Classics

96 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1972

About the author

Regarded by Byron, Keats, and Shelley as a genius, Thomas Chatterton was neglected and ignored despite minimal success under the pen-name Thomas Rowley. His pseudo-medieval poetry earned him a place in history after his suicide at the age of 17.

Reviews

[vivi ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

to think he wrote 'apostate will' when only eleven years old.. so young

this isn't my preferred style of poetry, but i find it really admirable that he sparked such a significant influence on the romantic era.

the first 10 pages are an introduction to thomas chatterton and his brief life, facing death at only 17 years old. his story moved me deeply: a sensitive boy with a profound love for literature, chatterton found refuge in medieval poetry, which served as an escape from the harshness of his schooling and the monotony of his apprenticeship. when the poems he wrote under his name garnered some success, he ventured to london to seek his fortune as a writer. after six months of relentless struggle, he tragically took his own life, starving and alone, in his attic room.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This small volume of Chatterton's essential poetry begins with a brilliant essay about his life and work. Praise be to Grevel Lindop and the Oxford dons for their contribution to our understanding of Chatterton.

[Prisoner 071053 · Rating 2 out of 5]

*THIS* helped set off the Romantic era in English literature? I can't see how. . .

[Leigh Koonce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though the picture doesn't match the book, this is a great poetry collection! Chatterton's penchant for writing in Middle English, too, is a treat!