Alfred Noyes
Full Name and Common Aliases
Alfred Noyes was born as Alfred Edward Noyes on September 16, 1880, in Gillingham, Kent, England.
Birth and Death Dates
September 16, 1880 - June 25, 1958
Nationality and Profession(s)
Noyes was a British poet, playwright, novelist, and essayist. He held dual nationality as both British and American.
Early Life and Background
Alfred Noyes was born to Charles and Fanny Noyes in Gillingham, Kent. His father worked as an accountant for the Royal Navy. Growing up in a naval port had a profound impact on his life and writing. He developed a love for literature and poetry at an early age. Noyes's family moved to Fareham in Hampshire when he was eight years old. This change exposed him to a new environment, which influenced his writing style.
Noyes attended St Edward's School in Oxford, where he excelled academically and developed his passion for poetry. He later studied at the University of Oxford, but did not graduate due to poor health. Despite this setback, he continued to write prolifically.
Major Accomplishments
Noyes achieved significant recognition for his work in various genres. His poem "The Highwayman" is one of his most famous pieces and remains widely read today. This epic poem explores themes of love, betrayal, and tragedy set against a backdrop of 17th-century England. It was first published in 1906.
Noyes was not only an accomplished poet but also a playwright. His plays often explored historical subjects. He wrote over 30 volumes of poetry throughout his career, showcasing his versatility as a writer.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works by Noyes include "The Highwayman" (1906), "Fort Farouk" (1915), and "Merlin: A Poem in Twenty-Four Parts" (1928). The latter work was an epic poem exploring the legendary wizard Merlin. Noyes also wrote several novels, including "The Torchbearers" (1909) and "The Return of Ishtar" (1932).
In addition to his literary works, Noyes was known for his advocacy for social causes. He supported women's suffrage and worker's rights.
Impact and Legacy
Noyes's impact on literature is multifaceted. His poetry often explored themes that were ahead of its time, such as the role of women in society. "The Highwayman" remains a testament to his skill as a poet and storyteller. Noyes's work has been translated into numerous languages, further increasing his global influence.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Noyes is widely quoted for several reasons:
His poetry often captured the essence of human emotions, making it relatable to readers.
He was a masterful storyteller who could weave complex narratives around historical and mythological themes.
* His advocacy for social causes has inspired many generations to fight for what they believe in.
Alfred Noyes's legacy extends far beyond his literary works. His commitment to social justice and his ability to capture the human experience through his writing continue to inspire readers today.
Quotes by Alfred Noyes
Alfred Noyes's insights on:
If ever I had any doubts about the fundamental realities of religion, they could always be dispelled by one memory- the light upon my father’s face as he came back from early communion.
Bring the buds of the hazel-copse, Where two lovers kissed at noon; Bring the crushed red wild-thyme tops Where they murmured under the moon...
The wind was a torrent of darkness among the gusty trees, The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas, The road was a ribbon of moonlight, over the purple moor, And the highwayman came riding – Riding – riding – The highwayman came riding, up to the old inn-door.
St. Luke again associates St. John with St. Peter in the Acts of the Apostles, when, after the Resurrection, that strange boldness had come upon the disciples.
At the end of Revelation there is again that solemn insistence on the personal testimony, and even more solemn warning to those who would impugn it.
Oh, grown-ups cannot understand, And grown-ups never will, How short the way to fairyland Across the purple hill.
Happy, happy, happy for all that God hath done, Glad of all the little leaves dancing in the sun.
Enough of dreams! No longer mock The burdened hearts of men! Not on the cloud, but on the rock Build thou thy faith again; O range no more the realms of air, Stoop to the glen-bound streams; Thy hope was all too like despair: Enough, enough of dreams.