The Poetry Of Thomas Hood

The Poetry Of Thomas Hood. Poetry is a fascinating use of language. With almost a million words at its command it is not surprising that these Isles have produced some of the most beautiful, moving and descriptive verse through the centuries. In this series we look at the world through the eyes and minds of our most gifted poets to bring you a unique poetic guide to their lives. Thomas Hood was born in London in 1799. Leaving school at 14 he began at a counting house but his health being somewhat poor he took work at engraving. Again his health failed him and he was sent to relations in Scotland. Here, it is thought, began his interest in the outdoors and poetry. In 1821 he became the sub editor of the London Magazine and quickly became part of a wide and varied social scene. In 1824 he married Jane Reynolds and they had two children. Hood's work is streaked with humour. In his day some of his poems were translated for sale in Europe, an unusual occurrence but one that shows his reach and influence on the poetical scene. Many of his works are considered classics and he remains today as a highly regarded poet of the Victorian era. Thomas Hood died at the young age of 45 on the 3rd of May, 1845. A monument, paid for by public subscription was raised at Kensal Green Among our readers are Richard Mitchley and Ghizela Rowe.