Gerard Manley Hopkins Quotes
A collection of quotes by Gerard Manley Hopkins.
Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844-1889) was an English poet and Jesuit priest, renowned for his innovative and strikingly original poetry. Born in Stratford, London, Hopkins showed great talent in both his studies and his artistic pursuits from an early age. He attended Balliol College, Oxford, where he became interested in the study of theology and developed a deep devotion to the Roman Catholic faith.
In 1866, Hopkins converted to Catholicism, and shortly after, he decided to enter the Jesuit order. This decision caused a significant shift in his poetic style; he began experimenting with a unique form of verse called "sprung rhythm," characterized by its irregular meter and intense musicality.
Hopkins' poetry often explored themes of nature, spirituality, and the struggle between faith and doubt. His most famous works include "The Windhover," "Pied Beauty," and "God's Grandeur." However, during his lifetime, Hopkins's poetry received little recognition, and much of his work remained unpublished.
Tragically, Hopkins struggled with depression and self-doubt throughout his life. He died at the age of 44, with only a few of his poems published. It was not until the 20th century that his brilliance was recognized, and he became highly regarded as one of the most original and influential poets in the English language. Today, Gerard Manley Hopkins is celebrated for his innovative poetic techniques, complex religious imagery, and his profound exploration of the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
