Ezra Pound Quotes
A collection of quotes by Ezra Pound.
Ezra Pound (1885-1972) was an influential American poet, critic, and translator, widely recognized as one of the key figures in modernist literature. Born in Hailey, Idaho, Pound spent most of his adult life in Europe, where he became deeply involved in the early 20th-century literary and artistic movements.
Pound's poetry, known for its experimentation, reflects his passion for ancient literature, particularly Chinese and Japanese poetry. His most renowned work, "The Cantos," is an extensive collection of poems that spans many years and embodies Pound's complex and highly allusive style. Pound's impact extended beyond his own verse; he played a significant role as an advocate, mentor, and publisher for other modernist writers, notably T.S. Eliot, H.D., and James Joyce.
As a critic, Pound was both admired and controversial for his strong opinions on literature and art. He championed the concept of "imagism," which emphasized clarity, conciseness, and the use of precise visual images in poetry. Pound's critical essays, collected in "Literary Essays," offered profound insights into the works of his contemporaries and the principles of poetic composition.
However, Pound's later life was marred by controversy due to his political views. He embraced fascist ideologies during World War II and made broadcasts supporting the Axis powers, leading to his arrest and imprisonment for treason after the war. Despite these controversies, Ezra Pound's impact on literature remains significant, and his innovative poetic techniques continue to be studied and celebrated today.
