W. S. Merwin Quotes

A collection of quotes by W. S. Merwin.

W.S. Merwin (1927-2019) was an acclaimed American poet, translator, and environmental activist. Born in New York City, Merwin grew up in Union City, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. He attended Princeton University and graduated in 1947.

Merwin's poetic career began in the 1950s, and he quickly gained recognition for his innovative style and profound exploration of themes such as nature, spirituality, love, and loss. His early works, influenced by T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound, showcased his deep connection to the natural world and his interest in Eastern philosophy. Over time, Merwin's poetry evolved into a more sparse and lyrical style, characterized by his signature use of imagery and direct language.

Throughout his career, Merwin received numerous prestigious awards, including two Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry in 1971 and 2009. He served as the United States Poet Laureate from 2010 to 2011.

In addition to his poetry, Merwin was known for his translations of works from a variety of languages, including French, Spanish, and Latin. He was passionate about environmental conservation and lived for many years in Hawaii, where he actively restored a former pineapple plantation into a flourishing palm forest.

Merwin's body of work is extensive, and his poetry continues to resonate with readers around the world. His writing emphasized connections between humans and the natural world, and he remains a prominent figure in American literature. W.S. Merwin passed away in March 2019, leaving behind a legacy of poetic excellence and environmental stewardship.