Yes, Gerard Manley Hopkins famously burned his poems at a pivotal point in his life. This significant act occurred upon his decision to become a priest, marking a profound shift in his personal and artistic journey.
The Decision to Burn His Works
Gerard Manley Hopkins demonstrated artistic talent from a young age, with his family in Essex, England, actively encouraging his creative endeavors. However, a major turning point in his life came when he converted to Roman Catholicism, leading to an estrangement from his Protestant family. Following this conversion, and upon making the commitment to become a priest, Hopkins made the drastic decision to burn all of his existing poetic works. This act was an intentional break from his past creative pursuits, signaling his full dedication to his religious vocation.
The immediate consequence of this decision was a long period during which he ceased writing poetry.
Context and Impact of the Burning
The act of burning his poems was more than a mere destruction of manuscripts; it was a symbolic gesture reflecting a deeper personal and spiritual reorientation.
| Aspect | Gerard Manley Hopkins's Early Life | Gerard Manley Hopkins's Vocation Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Family Encouragement | Supported artistic talents in youth (Essex, England) | Became estranged from Protestant family upon conversion |
| Religious Affiliation | Protestant family background | Converted to Roman Catholicism |
| Decision Point | Developing as a poet | Decided to become a priest |
| Action Regarding Poems | Actively writing poems | Burned all of his poems |
| Immediate Poetic Impact | Active creation | Did not write again for many years |
The Significance of His Decision
While Hopkins ceased writing for many years after this event, the burning of his early poems did not permanently end his poetic career. He eventually resumed writing, creating some of the most distinctive and influential poetry in the English language, though much of it was published posthumously. His later works, known for their innovative use of "sprung rhythm" and rich imagery, solidified his legacy as a major Victorian poet. The period of poetic silence and the destruction of his early works highlight the profound spiritual crisis and commitment that shaped his life and, ultimately, his unique artistic expression.
To learn more about his life and work, you can explore resources like Gerard Manley Hopkins on Wikipedia.
