John Keats (1795–1821) was an English Romantic poet who, despite a short life, made a significant impact on English literature. Here's a brief overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life: John Keats was born on October 31, 1795, in London, England. He lost his parents at an early age; his father died when he was eight, and his mother when he was 14. After their deaths, he was placed under the guardianship of a guardian named Richard Abbey.
Education and Career: Keats studied at the Clarke School in Enfield and later apprenticed as a surgeon. However, his passion for literature and poetry led him to abandon his medical career in pursuit of writing.
Poetry Career: Keats's poetry career began around 1816. He was associated with other Romantic poets such as Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron. His first volume of poetry, "Poems" (1817), received mixed reviews.
Romantic Themes: Keats's poetry is known for its sensual imagery, vivid descriptions of nature, and exploration of deep emotions. Some of his famous works include "Ode to a Nightingale," "Ode to a Grecian Urn," and "To Autumn."
Health Issues: Throughout his life, Keats suffered from poor health, possibly exacerbated by the stress of financial difficulties and personal losses. In 1820, he was diagnosed with tuberculosis, which was incurable at the time.
Italy and Final Days: Hoping the warmer climate would improve his health, Keats traveled to Italy in 1820. Despite the change in location, his health continued to deteriorate. He died in Rome on February 23, 1821, at the age of 25.
Legacy: Although Keats did not gain widespread recognition during his lifetime, his poetry later became highly regarded for its beauty and depth. He is now considered one of the leading figures of the Romantic movement in English literature.
Keats's letters, in which he shared his thoughts on poetry, life, and art, also contribute to his legacy. His famous phrase "Negative Capability," expressing the capacity to accept uncertainty and doubt without pursuing logical answers, is often cited in discussions of his work and creative philosophy.