Archibald MacLeish Quotes
A collection of quotes by Archibald MacLeish.
Archibald MacLeish was an American poet, essayist, playwright, and diplomat, born on May 7, 1892, in Glencoe, Illinois. He was considered one of the leading literary figures of his time, renowned for his eloquent and thought-provoking works.
MacLeish obtained his Bachelor's and Law degrees from Yale University before serving in World War I. The war greatly impacted him, leading to a change in his perspective and his decision to pursue a career in writing. He went on to publish numerous poems, including his acclaimed composition, "Ars Poetica," which emphasized the art of poetry and its relationship with life.
In addition to his literary achievements, MacLeish also contributed to political and intellectual discourse. During the 1930s, he actively denounced fascism and advocated for collective security. Later, he served as Assistant Secretary of State during World War II and was a key figure in the establishment of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Throughout his career, MacLeish received various accolades for his work, including Pulitzer Prizes for his poems "Conquistador" (1933) and "Collected Poems 1917–1952" (1953). He continued writing until his death on April 20, 1982, leaving behind a significant body of work that explored themes of humanistic values, the complexities of existence, and the power of language. Archibald Macleish's contributions to both literature and public service have solidified his place as a notable figure in American intellectual history.