Early Life
Edward James Hughes, known as Ted Hughes, was born on August 7, 1930, in Mytholmroyd, West Riding of Yorkshire, to William Henry and Edith Hughes. His childhood was rooted in rural surroundings, nurturing his poetic imagination. Tragically, his mother passed away in 1960, followed by his father in 1981.
Education
Ted's educational journey began in Mytholmroyd at Burnley Road School. After the family relocated to Mexborough, he attended Schofield Street Junior School and later Mexborough Grammar School. It was during his school years that his teachers recognized his writing talent and encouraged him to explore poetry. At the age of fifteen, he composed his first poem, which was published in the school magazine, "The Don and Dearne."
In 1948, he earned a scholarship to Pembroke College, Cambridge, but opted for National Service in the air force from 1949 to 1951. Afterward, he returned to Pembroke College to major in Literature, although his academic interests later shifted to Anthropology and Archaeology. His studies also encompassed mythology and the works of renowned writers.
Married Life and Tragedy
While at Cambridge, Ted Hughes met the acclaimed American writer Sylvia Plath, leading to their marriage on June 16, 1956. Their initial years together were marked by literary collaboration and successes, with their poetry being published in esteemed journals. Tragedy struck as their relationship faced difficulties, eventually leading to their separation in 1962. In 1963, Sylvia Plath tragically took her own life, and in 1969, Assia Gutmann Wevill, with whom Ted had a relationship, also ended her life along with their child.
Ted Hughes entered his third marriage in 1970 with Carol Orchard, which endured until his passing in 1998.
Death
Ted Hughes, the renowned poet, spent his final days in Devon, continuing to produce literary works until shortly before his death. His last work, "Birthday Letters," was published in 1998. He succumbed to cancer on October 28, 1998.
Key Facts
- He was married three times, with the first two marriages tragically ending in suicides.
- Besides poetry, he excelled in teaching, playwriting, and children's fiction writing.
- His literary contributions earned him various awards, including the Order of Merit presented by the Queen.
- In 2008, he was ranked fourth on The Times list of the fifty greatest British writers.
His Writing Career
Ted Hughes pursued four distinct careers during his lifetime: poetry, teaching, playwriting, and children's fiction writing. He published his first poem at fifteen, followed by co-founding the literary magazine "St. Botolph's Review" in 1956. His collaboration with Sylvia Plath was pivotal in advancing his poetic career. Plath encouraged him to submit his first manuscript, "The Hawk in the Rain," which achieved significant success.
His extensive body of work includes notable collections such as "The Iron Man," "The School Bag," "Wolf Watching," "Crow," "Cave Birds," and "Selected Poems 1957-1981."
His Style
Ted Hughes's distinctive style, marked by natural and animal imagery, complexity of thought, and free verse, gained global recognition. His poetry delved into ordinary human experiences, portraying them with intense emotions. Themes of loss, death, fear, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world permeate his works.
Notable Works by Ted Hughes
- Best Poems: "The Thought Fox," "Snowdrop," "Pike," "View of a Pig," "Hawk Roosting," "Crow's First Lesson," and "The Blue Flannel Suit."
- Other Works: In addition to poetry, he explored prose, plays, and short stories, including "The House of Aries," "The Wound," "The House of Donkeys," "The Price of a Bride," and "The Iron Man."
Ted Hughes's Impact on Future Literature
Ted Hughes, a prominent English poet and writer, left an enduring impact during his lifetime. His intellectually charged works were celebrated by both audiences and fellow literary figures. His unique style and expression challenged conventional norms, reshaping perspectives on poetry. His ability to explore complex themes resonates with modern writers, making him a beacon for prose, poetry, and translation.
Famous Quotes
“He swayed in the strong wind that pressed against his back...
the Iron Man stepped forward, off the cliff, into nothingness.” - (From "The Iron Man")
“Who owns the whole rainy, stony earth? Death...
Who owns all of space? Death.” - (From "Crow")
“My feet are locked upon the rough bark...
Here I hold Creation in my foot.” - (From "Hawk Roosting")