Herbert Read

A Renaissance Man: Poet, Art Critic, and Philosopher

Full Name and Common Aliases

Herbert Edward Read was born on December 13, 1893, in Belfast, Ireland (now Northern Ireland). His full name is often associated with his literary pursuits, while he is also known as H.E. Read or simply Herbert Read.

Birth and Death Dates

December 13, 1893 – June 21, 1968

Nationality and Profession(s)

British poet, art critic, historian of art, philosopher, and writer.

Early Life and Background

Herbert Read was born to a family of modest means. His father, Edward Read, was an accountant, and his mother, Margaret (née Brown), was a homemaker. The Reads were a close-knit family with strong literary interests, which would later influence Herbert's own pursuits. He developed an early love for poetry and reading, often devouring books from the local library.

During World War I, Read served in the British Army as a captain in the Royal Engineers. After being wounded at the Battle of the Somme in 1916, he returned to England and began writing seriously. This experience would shape his later views on art, war, and human existence.

Major Accomplishments

Read's contributions span multiple fields:

Poetry: His first book of poetry, _Nightmares_ , was published in 1918, followed by several others, including _The End of a Dynasty_ (1929) and _The Contrary Experience_ (1931).
Art Criticism: Read wrote extensively on modern art movements, influencing the development of abstract expressionism. His seminal book, _Art Now: An Introduction to the Theory of Modern Art_ (1933), remains influential.
Philosophy: He was a key figure in the development of existentialist thought in Britain, drawing on his wartime experiences and fascination with philosophy.

Notable Works or Actions

Some notable works include:

_The Green Child_ , a novel published in 1934 that explores themes of love, art, and human nature.
_To Hell with Paradise: Studies of Satire_ (1952), which examines the role of satire in art and literature.

Read's contributions extend beyond his written works. He was a key figure in establishing the modern art movement in Britain, serving as a director of the Tate Gallery from 1934 to 1937. His advocacy for modern artists helped shape the British art scene.

Impact and Legacy

Herbert Read's impact is multifaceted:

Influence on Modern Art: His writings on abstract expressionism helped pave the way for this influential movement.
Existentialist Thought: His exploration of existential ideas in Britain helped bridge the gap between continental philosophy and British intellectual circles.
Art Education: Read's advocacy for modern art education led to significant changes in how art was taught and perceived.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Herbert Read is remembered for his:

Visionary Insights: His ability to foresee the impact of modern art movements on society.
Influence on Interdisciplinary Thought: He bridged the gap between philosophy, literature, and art criticism, contributing to a more holistic understanding of human experience.
* Advocacy for Modern Art: His tireless efforts to promote modern artists and their work helped shape the British art landscape.

Herbert Read's life and work embody the Renaissance ideal: an individual whose diverse pursuits – poetry, art criticism, philosophy – intersected in meaningful ways. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of thinkers, artists, and writers.