EL

Edgar Lee Masters

53quotes

Edgar Lee Masters: A Poet of the Human Condition


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Full Name and Common Aliases


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Edgar Lee Masters was an American poet, playwright, and novelist born on August 23, 1869, in Garnett, Kansas. He is often referred to as E.L. Masters or simply Masters, but his full name remains a testament to the humble beginnings that shaped his life's work.

Birth and Death Dates


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August 23, 1869 - March 5, 1950

Nationality and Profession(s)


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Masters was an American poet, playwright, novelist, and essayist. His work spanned multiple genres, but poetry remains his most celebrated contribution to literature.

Early Life and Background


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Growing up in a family of modest means, Masters' early life laid the foundation for his later writing style. He spent his childhood in Garnett, Kansas, before moving to Lewiston, Illinois, where he attended high school. After completing his education, Masters began teaching English at a local school but soon turned to literature as a way to express himself.

Major Accomplishments


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Masters' breakthrough work came with the publication of Spoon River Anthology in 1915. This innovative collection of poetry revolutionized the genre by introducing free verse and exploring themes that were considered taboo at the time, such as love, death, and social inequality. The anthology became a critical success, earning Masters widespread recognition and acclaim.

Notable Works or Actions


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Throughout his career, Masters continued to experiment with new forms of poetry, often incorporating elements of drama and fiction into his work. Some notable works include:

Spoon River Anthology (1915)
 The New World (1917) - a collection of essays that reflect on American culture
* The Open Shore (1920) - a novel exploring themes of love, loss, and identity

Impact and Legacy


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Masters' impact on 20th-century literature cannot be overstated. His introduction of free verse in poetry paved the way for future generations of writers to explore new forms and styles. The themes he tackled in his work – social inequality, mortality, and human connection – continue to resonate with readers today.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


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Edgar Lee Masters' quotes are widely remembered due to their poignant exploration of the human condition. His poetry offers a unique perspective on life's complexities, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. As a literary pioneer, Masters continues to inspire writers and thinkers alike with his innovative style and thought-provoking themes.

Masters' legacy extends beyond his written work; he also left an enduring mark on American literature through his advocacy for literary experimentation and social commentary. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional poetry has influenced countless writers, cementing his place as one of the most important figures in 20th-century American literature.

Quotes by Edgar Lee Masters

But a man can never avenge himself on the monstrous ogre Life.
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But a man can never avenge himself on the monstrous ogre Life.
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Back of every soldier is a woman.
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Back of every soldier is a woman.
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The dust’s for crawling, heaven’s for flying, Wherefore, O Soul, whose wings are grown, Soar upward to the sun!
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The dust’s for crawling, heaven’s for flying, Wherefore, O Soul, whose wings are grown, Soar upward to the sun!
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The mind sees the world as a thing apart, And the soul makes the world at one with itself. A mirror scratched reflects no image – And this is the silence of wisdom.
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The mind sees the world as a thing apart, And the soul makes the world at one with itself. A mirror scratched reflects no image – And this is the silence of wisdom.
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And I never started to plow in my life That some one did not stop in the road And take me away to a dance or picnic. I ended up with forty acres; I ended up with a broken fiddle – And a broken laugh, and a thousand memories, And not a single regret.
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And I never started to plow in my life That some one did not stop in the road And take me away to a dance or picnic. I ended up with forty acres; I ended up with a broken fiddle – And a broken laugh, and a thousand memories, And not a single regret.
EL
What is this I hear of sorrow and weariness, Anger, discontent and drooping hopes? Degenerate sons and daughters, Life is too strong for you – It takes life to love Life.
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What is this I hear of sorrow and weariness, Anger, discontent and drooping hopes? Degenerate sons and daughters, Life is too strong for you – It takes life to love Life.
EL
The tongue may be an unruly member – But silence poisons the soul.
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The tongue may be an unruly member – But silence poisons the soul.
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Work for your own soul’s sake.
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Work for your own soul’s sake.
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To put meaning in one’s life may end in madness, But life without meaning is the torture Of restlessness and vague desire-It is a boat longing for the sea and yet afraid.
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To put meaning in one’s life may end in madness, But life without meaning is the torture Of restlessness and vague desire-It is a boat longing for the sea and yet afraid.
EL
Work for your own soul's sake.
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Work for your own soul's sake.
EL
#peace
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