Bayard Taylor
Bayard Taylor
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Bayard Taylor was an American poet, literary critic, travel writer, and diplomat. He is also known as Bayard Kendrick Taylor.
Birth and Death Dates
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Bayard Taylor was born on January 4, 1825, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. He passed away on December 19, 1878, in Rome, Italy.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Taylor's nationality was American, and he worked as a poet, literary critic, travel writer, and diplomat.
Early Life and Background
Bayard Taylor was born to Joseph Henry Taylor and Elizabeth Waring Kendrick Taylor. His family were members of the Quaker community, which instilled in him a strong sense of morality and social responsibility. Taylor grew up with a love for literature and poetry, which he developed through his own reading and writing.
Taylor attended Westtown Boarding School, where he began to develop his skills as a writer. After completing his education, he worked as a teacher before turning to a career in journalism. He eventually became the editor of the _Philadelphia Gazette_ and the _New York Tribune_.
Major Accomplishments
During his lifetime, Taylor achieved significant success as a poet, literary critic, travel writer, and diplomat. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
Traveling extensively throughout Europe and publishing accounts of his experiences
Serving as the American consul in Munich, Germany
Translating numerous works from German into EnglishNotable Works or Actions
Taylor's most famous works are:
*"Eldorado"_ (1847), a long narrative poem about an American knight who sets out to find the mythical city of gold
_The Panorama_ (1856), a collection of essays on art, literature, and culture
_Views A-Foot: Or, Europe Seen with Knapsack and Staff_ (1846), a travelogue that explores European cities and landscapes
Taylor was also known for his literary criticism, which appeared in various publications. He advocated for American writers to draw inspiration from international styles and themes.
Impact and Legacy
Bayard Taylor's impact on literature and culture is still felt today. His poetry and prose have been widely praised for their lyricism and insight into the human condition. Taylor's travel writings helped popularize European culture in America, while his literary criticism paved the way for future generations of American writers.
Taylor's diplomatic career was marked by controversy. He served as the American consul in Munich but faced challenges due to his outspoken views on politics and social issues. Despite these challenges, Taylor remained committed to promoting cultural exchange between nations.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Bayard Taylor is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:
His poetry and prose continue to inspire readers with their beauty and depth
His travel writings offer a unique perspective on European culture during the 19th century
His literary criticism remains relevant today, as it challenges writers to push boundaries and explore new themes
Taylor's legacy extends beyond his individual works. He played an important role in shaping American literature and culture during the 19th century.
Quotes by Bayard Taylor
I love thee, I love but thee With a love that shall not die Till the sun grows cold, And the stars grow old...
With rushing winds and gloomy skies The dark and stubborn Winter dies: Far-off, unseen, Spring faintly cries, Bidding her earliest child arise; March!
The aquilegia sprinkled on the rocks A scarlet rain; the yellow violet Sat in the chariot of its leaves, the phlox Held spikes of purple flame in meadows wet, And all the streams with vernal-scented reed Were fringed, and streaky bellow of miskodeed.
He teaches best, Who feels the hearts of all men in his breast, And knows their strength or weakness through his own.
Alone each heart must cover up its dead; Alone, through bitter toil, achieve its rest.