Description

The Poetry Of John Clare - Shepherd's Calendar. Poetry is a fascinating use of language. With almost a million words at its command it is not surprising that these Isles have produced some of the most beautiful, moving and descriptive verse through the centuries. In this series we look at individual poets who have shaped and influenced their craft and cement their place in our heritage. In this volume we look at the works of John Clare. John Clare was born on July 13th 1793 in Helpston, a few miles north of Peterborough. Schooled only until the age of 12 his early career was that of agricultural labourer, pot boy, gardener, lime burner. His early life of hardships and frequent malnutrition led to his diminutive stature of only five feet and later health problems. In 1920 his first poems were published and he began to earn his reputation as the "e;Northamptonshire Peasant Poet"e;. His poetry sold well but only occasionally did that and other incomes keep his head above water. Married with seven children the burden was huge and demanding. Frequently penniless his health began to dissolve. He last published in 1835 and by 1837 with his drinking out of control and his mental state shredded he entered a mental institution. He was to reside in such unhappy places until his death. He died on at 71 on 20 May 1864. His remains were returned to Helpston for burial in St Botolph's churchyard. Today he is considered one of the greatest of English poets. His works on nat