Walter De La Mare

Walter De La Mare (1873-1956) was an English poet, novelist, and short story writer known for his enchanting and atmospheric works. He was born on April 25, 1873, in Charlton, Kent, England.

De La Mare's writing career spanned several decades, and he explored a wide range of genres, including poetry, children's literature, psychological thrillers, and supernatural fiction. His works often incorporated themes of imagination, mystery, and the uncanny, creating a sense of wonder and introspection.

Some of Walter De La Mare's notable works include:

  1. "Songs of Childhood" (1902): This collection of poetry for children captured the magic and innocence of childhood. The poems celebrated the imagination, nature, and the beauty found in everyday experiences.

  2. "Memoirs of a Midget" (1921): This novel tells the story of Miss M., a young woman who is physically small but possesses a rich inner life. The book explores themes of identity, isolation, and the power of imagination.

  3. "Collected Stories for Children" (1947): This anthology brings together De La Mare's short stories for children. The stories often delve into the supernatural and the mysterious, captivating young readers with their imaginative and atmospheric narratives.

  4. "The Listeners and Other Poems" (1912): This collection of poetry showcases De La Mare's lyrical style and his ability to evoke a sense of mystery and beauty. The title poem, "The Listeners," is one of his most famous works and portrays a traveler encountering spectral figures in an abandoned house.

Walter De La Mare's writing style was characterized by his delicate and evocative language, his exploration of the human psyche, and his fascination with the unknown. His works often had a dreamlike quality, blurring the boundaries between reality and imagination.

De La Mare received numerous accolades for his contributions to literature, including the Order of Merit in 1948. He continued to write until his death on June 22, 1956, in Twickenham, Middlesex, England. His works have left a lasting impact and continue to be appreciated for their lyrical beauty, their exploration of the supernatural, and their ability to transport readers into realms of enchantment and introspection.