Collected Poems 1934-1952

Dylan Thomas wrote some of the most famous and loved poems of the 20th century, including "Do not go gentle into that good night," "Fern Hill," and "The force that through the green fuse drives the flower." This edition reproduces the Collected Poems 1934-1952, which the poet authorized just before his tragically early death at the age of 39. His poems cover the span of birth to death, while at their heart is a lyrical, joyful impulse that celebrates life. The Introduction and Notes set Thomas's poetry in its cultural and poetic context and offer ways into a highly crafted, and rich in language and emotion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2024
Publisher: Wordsworth Editions Ltd

Dylan Thomas was a twentieth-century poet who left behind a collection of poems that are among the most well-known and cherished of all time. Among these are the iconic lines "Do not go gentle into that good night," "Fern Hill," and "The force that through the green fuse drives the flower." This edition presents the Collected Poems 1934-1952, which the poet authorized just before his untimely death at the age of 39. He described it as a compilation of "most of the poems I have written, and all, up to the present year, I wish to preserve." Thomas's poetic journey began at a young age, with his first poem being published nationally at the age of 18. His first collection, 18 Poems, was released when he was just 20. Despite his early demise, he left behind a substantial and significant body of work, which is represented in this collection. His poems span the spectrum of human experience, from birth to death, but are ultimately driven by a lyrical, joyful impulse that celebrates life.

The Introduction and Notes provided by Sally Minogue offer valuable insights into Thomas's poetry and its cultural and poetic context. They provide a framework for understanding the craftsmanship and richness of his language and emotion. The Introduction contextualizes Thomas's poetry within the broader cultural landscape of Wales and its literary tradition. It sheds light on the influences and inspirations that shaped his work, as well as the social and political contexts in which he lived and wrote. The Notes provide detailed explanations and interpretations of Thomas's poems, exploring their themes, symbols, and literary devices. They offer readers a deeper understanding of the nuances and complexities of his poetry, enabling them to appreciate its beauty and power on a new level.

In conclusion, Dylan Thomas's Collected Poems 1934-1952 is a testament to his precocious talent and the profound impact he had on the world of poetry. This edition, with its Introduction and Notes by Sally Minogue, provides a valuable entry point into Thomas's poetic world, allowing readers to explore his rich and diverse body of work. Whether one is a seasoned poetry enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of a truly remarkable poet.

Weight: 186g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781840228465