Jack Gilbert
Jack Gilbert
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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The full name of this renowned American poet is Jack Myers Gilbert.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on March 18, 1925, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, he passed away on November 20, 2012, at the age of 87.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American Poet
Jack Gilbert's poetry is widely regarded for its depth, simplicity, and poignant portrayal of human experience. Throughout his illustrious career, he demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the art form.
Early Life and Background
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Gilbert grew up in a family that valued literature and art. His father was a poet himself, which may have contributed to Jack's early interest in creative writing. The young Gilbert spent much of his childhood exploring the woods near his home, an experience that would later influence his poetry.
After completing high school, he attended Ohio State University, where he began honing his writing skills. It wasn't until 1944, during a stint in the U.S. Navy, that Jack started to take his poetry seriously.
Major Accomplishments
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- First published collection: Gilbert's first book of poems, _View of War_, was released in 1942 while he was still in high school.
- Guggenheim Fellowship: In 1962, he received a prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship, allowing him to focus on his writing without financial worries.
- Poet Laureate: Jack Gilbert served as the Poet Laureate of the United States from 2004 until 2005.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some of his most celebrated collections include:
_The Great Fires_ (1994)
_Refusal to Wait, Waiting for Wilder_ (1986)
Gilbert's poetry often explores themes related to love, loss, and the human condition. His unique voice has captivated readers worldwide.
Impact and Legacy
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Jack Gilbert's impact on modern poetry is undeniable. He paved the way for future generations of poets by refusing to conform to traditional styles or conventions. Through his uncompromising dedication to his craft, he inspired countless writers and readers alike.
His legacy extends beyond the literary world as well. Gilbert's poetry has been translated into numerous languages, making it accessible to people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Gilbert is widely quoted for his ability to capture the essence of human experience in a few, beautifully crafted words. His poems often tackle universal themes that resonate with readers on a deep level.
One reason for his enduring popularity lies in the accessibility of his poetry. Gilbert's use of simple language belies the complexity and depth of his thoughts, allowing readers from all walks of life to connect with his work.
In conclusion, Jack Gilbert was an extraordinary poet whose contributions to the world of literature cannot be overstated. His remarkable career serves as a testament to the transformative power of art.
Quotes by Jack Gilbert
Jack Gilbert's insights on:
Walking in the dark streets of Seoul under the almost full moon. Lost for the last two hours. Finishing a loaf of bread and worried about the curfew. I have not spoken for three days and I am thinking, “Why not just settle for love? Why not just settle for love instead?
What can I do with these people? They come to the risk so dutifully. Are delighted by anecdotes that give them Poetry. Are grateful to be told of diagonals that give them Painting. Good people. But stubborn when warned the beast is not domestic. How can I persuade them that the dark, soulful Keats was five feet one? Liked fighting and bear-baiting? I can’t explain the red hair. Nor say how you died so full of lust for Fanny Brawne. I will tell them of Semele.
Why do so manysettle for so little? I don’t understand why they’re not greedy for what’s inside them.
Fame is a lot of fun, but it’s not interesting. I loved being noticed and praised, even the banquets. But they didn’t have anything that I wanted. After about six months, I found it boring.
Let me fall in love one last time, I beg them. Teach me mortality, frighten me into the present.
Without bravery, we will never be able to realize the vaulting scope of our own capacities. Without bravery, we will never know the world as richly as it longs to be known. Without bravery, our lives will remain small – far smaller than we probably want our lives to be.
But one can acquire a taste for love as for loneliness or ugliness as for saintliness. Each a special way of going down.
I’m vain enough to think that I’ve made a successful life. I’ve had everything I’ve ever wanted. You can’t beat that.