Randall Jarrell Quotes

A collection of quotes by Randall Jarrell.

Randall Jarrell (1914-1965) was an American poet, critic, and essayist. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, he displayed a keen interest in literature and began writing poetry at a young age. Jarrell graduated from Vanderbilt University in 1935 and went on to study at the University of Michigan, where he received his master's degree in English literature.

During World War II, Jarrell served in the Army Air Corps and worked as a flying instructor. The war heavily influenced his poetry, as evident in his collection "Little Friend, Little Friend" (1945). His experiences as a pilot and the trauma of war often served as central themes in his work.

Aside from his poetry, Jarrell also wrote essays and literary criticism. He became known for his insightful and meticulous analyses of other poets' works. His critical writing, which included influential essays on Robert Frost and Walt Whitman, demonstrated a deep understanding and appreciation of poetry.

Jarrell's own poetry, characterized by its lyricism, irony, and complex imagery, explored various themes ranging from war and death to childhood and growing up. His notable collections include "The Woman at the Washington Zoo" (1960) and "The Lost World" (1965). His works earned him critical acclaim and several awards, including the National Book Award for Poetry.

Randall Jarrell's writing continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth, technical brilliance, and exploration of the human condition. His contributions to American poetry and literary criticism have secured his place as one of the significant voices of the mid-twentieth century.