James Gates Percival
James Gates Percival
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Full Name and Common Aliases
James Gates Percival
J.G.P.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: 1795, New Haven, Connecticut
Died: 1859
Nationality and Profession(s)
American poet, physician, and educator
Early Life and Background
James Gates Percival was born in 1795 to a family of modest means. His father, James Percival, was a farmer and his mother, Lucy Gates, was a homemaker. The Percivals were a traditional New England family with strong roots in the community. Young Percival's early life was marked by a love for learning and a desire to excel academically.
Percival attended Yale College (now Yale University) where he developed his skills as a writer and orator. He was particularly drawn to classical literature and the works of the Romantics, which would later influence his own writing style. After graduating in 1816, Percival went on to study medicine at Yale's Medical Institution.
Major Accomplishments
Percival's academic achievements were impressive. In addition to earning his medical degree, he was also a talented poet and writer. His poetry often explored themes of nature, morality, and the human condition. Percival's work was influenced by the Romantic movement, which emphasized emotion, imagination, and individualism.
One of Percival's most notable accomplishments was his appointment as Professor of Anatomy at Yale Medical Institution in 1824. He held this position for nearly two decades, during which time he taught some of the brightest young minds in the country.
Notable Works or Actions
Percival's literary output was significant, with numerous poems and essays published throughout his career. Some of his most notable works include:
"The Minstrel" (1826), a collection of poetry that showcases Percival's mastery of language and form.
"Eulogy on the late General Lafayette" (1834), a heartfelt tribute to the Marquis de Lafayette, a French military officer who played a key role in the American Revolutionary War.
Impact and Legacy
Percival's impact on American literature and education was profound. His poetry helped shape the country's literary landscape, influencing generations of writers to come. As a teacher and educator, Percival inspired countless students to pursue careers in medicine and the arts.
Today, Percival is remembered as one of America's finest poets and educators. His legacy continues to inspire readers and scholars alike with its timeless themes and beautiful language.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Percival's quotes are widely used due to their insight into the human experience and their enduring relevance. His poetry offers a unique perspective on life, encouraging readers to appreciate the beauty of nature, the importance of morality, and the value of individualism.
As a writer, Percival was known for his thoughtful and reflective style. He was able to capture the complexities of the human condition in his work, making him a beloved figure among readers and scholars.
Quotes by James Gates Percival
Night steals on; and the day takes its farewell, like the words of a departing friend, or the last tone of hallowed music in a minister’s aisles, heard when it floats along the shade of elms, in the still place of graves.
The thundering voice that wrings, in one dark, damning moment, crimes of years!
Thought can wing its way Swifter than lightning-flashes or the beam That hastens on the pinions of the morn.
Green sods are all their monument; and yet it tells A nobler history than pillared piles, Or the eternal pyramids.
Our thoughts are boundless, though our frames are frail, Our souls immortal, though our limbs decay; Though darken'd in this poor life by a veil Of suffering, dying matter, we shall play In truth's eternal sunbeams; on the way To heaven's high capitol our cars shall roll; The temple of the Power whom all obey, That is the mark we tend to, for the soul Can take no lower flight, and seek no meaner goal.
O rose! the sweetest blossom, Of spring the fairest flower, O rose! the joy of heaven. The god of love, with roses His yellow locks adorning, Dances with the hours and graces.
Happy the life, that in a peaceful stream, Obscure, unnoticed through the vale has flow'd; The heart that ne'er was charm'd by fortune's gleam Is ever sweet contentment's blest abode.
In Eastern lands they talk in flowers, And they tell in a garland their loves and cares; Each blossom that blooms in their garden bowers, On its leaves a mystic language bears.
Sweet flower, thou tellest how hearts as pure and tender as thy leaf, as low and humble as thy stem, will surely know the joy that peace imparts.
Night steals on; and the day takes its farewell, like the words of a departing friend, or the last tone of hallowed music in a minister's aisles, heard when it floats along the shade of elms, in the still place of graves.