Alfred, Lord Tennyson
📘 About This Book
First published in 1932, this book contains a selection of Tennyson's poetry edited by renowned English author, poet and classicist Frank Laurence Lucas (1894-1967). A detailed editorial introduction is also included. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in Tennyson and Lucas.
📖 Summary
First published in 1932, this biographical and poetic volume brings together a carefully curated selection of verse by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, meticulously edited by the distinguished English author, poet, and classicist Frank Laurence Lucas. Spanning 239 pages in its 2013 reissue, the book serves as both an introduction to the immense lyrical output of one of Victorian England's most celebrated literary figures and a testament to the critical perspective of its editor. Rather than presenting a conventional, full-length prose biography, Lucas approaches the life and mind of Tennyson through the poet's own art, framing the selected pieces with a detailed and insightful editorial introduction that illuminates the historical and cultural contexts of the era. The selection highlights the brilliance of Tennyson's imagery, his mastery of rhythm, and the melancholic, reflective undertones that defined much of his most enduring work. Lucas, drawing upon his own deep expertise as a classicist and writer, guides the reader through the nuances of the verse, offering commentary that bridges the gap between the Victorian past and the sensibilities of twentieth-century literary criticism. This volume provides a unique dual perspective, showcasing the genius of Tennyson while also reflecting the critical values of Lucas. Readers are treated to a thoughtful curation that traces the evolution of Tennyson's poetic voice, capturing the grandeur and emotional resonance that made him a central pillar of nineteenth-century literature. The extensive editorial introduction acts as a vital companion to the poems, offering biographical insights and literary analysis that enrich the reading experience. By blending the creative output of the poet with the scholarly commentary of the editor, the book creates a dialogue across time, preserving the legacy of Tennyson through the discerning lens of a fellow poet and classicist. It remains a fascinating artifact of literary history, offering a window into how mid-twentieth-century scholarship perceived and valued the Victorian poetic tradition.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Features carefully selected poetry by a master of Victorian verse
Includes a detailed and scholarly editorial introduction
Edited by the renowned classicist and author F.L. Lucas
Offers historical insight into both Victorian poetry and twentieth-century criticism
⚠️ Cons
May not appeal to readers looking for a traditional full-length prose biography
The editorial perspective is specific to the early twentieth-century viewpoint of its editor
✍️ About the Author
❓ FAQ
Who is the author of this book? +
The book features the poetry of Alfred Lord Tennyson and was originally edited by Frank Laurence Lucas.
When was the book originally published? +
The book was first published in 1932.
What does the book include besides poetry? +
It includes a detailed editorial introduction written by Frank Laurence Lucas.
How many pages does the 2013 edition have? +
The 2013 edition contains 239 pages.
Who will find this book most valuable? +
It will be of value to anyone with a specific interest in the works of Tennyson and the editorial perspective of Lucas.
