John Crowe Ransom Quotes

A collection of quotes by John Crowe Ransom.

John Crowe Ransom (1888-1974) was an American poet, critic, and educator, known for his significant contributions to American literature and his influential role in the literary movement known as the New Criticism.

Born on April 30, 1888, in Pulaski, Tennessee, Ransom showed an early aptitude for writing. He graduated from Vanderbilt University in 1909 and went on to pursue further studies at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. After returning to the United States, Ransom joined the faculty of Vanderbilt and became a pivotal figure in the Fugitives, a group of southern poets who sought to revitalize poetry by embracing traditional poetic forms and themes.

In 1922, Ransom published his influential poetry collection, "Chills and Fever," which showcased his precise craftsmanship and modern sensibilities. However, it was his critical work that elevated him to prominence. Ransom's essays, particularly those published in "The New Criticism" (1941), outlined the fundamental principles of the New Criticism movement. Advocating for close textual analysis and the isolation of a poem's formal elements, Ransom emphasized the importance of the individual work itself rather than historical context or authorial intent.

Throughout his career, Ransom continued to write poetry, publish critical essays, and teach at various institutions, including Kenyon College, where he spent most of his academic career. His significant impact on American literature and his role in shaping literary criticism make him a highly regarded figure in the twentieth-century literary landscape. John Crowe Ransom passed away on July 3, 1974, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the study and interpretation of literature.