The Life and Legacy of Richard Wilbur

Early Life and Education of Richard Wilbur

Richard Wilbur, an influential American poet and literary figure, was born on March 1, 1921, in New York City. He grew up in North Caldwell, New Jersey, where he developed an early interest in writing, partly due to his mother's family's involvement in journalism. Wilbur's high school years saw him contributing to the school newspaper, honing his journalistic skills. He pursued higher education at Amherst College, where he further engaged in writing and editing. His college years were interrupted by World War II, during which he served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army, experiencing the conflict firsthand in Europe. The war's profound impact on him deepened his introspection and commitment to poetry.

Wilbur's Academic Pursuits and Early Career

After his military service, Richard Wilbur continued his education at Harvard University, where he obtained a Master of Arts in Literature. It was during this period that he formed a friendship with the renowned poet Robert Frost, who became a significant influence on Wilbur's work. Wilbur embarked on an academic career, teaching at institutions such as Wellesley College and Wesleyan University. His tenure at Wesleyan was particularly notable for his contributions to the university's poetry scene. In 1947, Wilbur published his first poetry collection, "The Beautiful Changes and Other Poems," marking the beginning of his professional literary career.

Wilbur's Poetic Style and Contributions

Renowned for his mastery of form, Richard Wilbur's poetry is characterized by its adherence to traditional structures, including meter and rhyme. His work often features clever wordplay, witticisms, and the use of paradox, through which he explores themes of human experience and the natural world. Wilbur's poetry stands in contrast to the confessional style that was prevalent among his contemporaries, as he chose to maintain a more measured and optimistic tone. His poem "Advice to a Prophet" exemplifies his skillful use of form and his ability to convey profound messages with clarity and elegance.

Accomplishments and Recognition

Richard Wilbur's literary achievements were recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 1952, he received the prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship, and his collection "Things of This World: Poems" won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and the National Book Award in 1957. His contributions to musical theatre, including his collaboration with Leonard Bernstein on the operetta "Candide," further highlighted his versatility as a writer. Wilbur served as the Poet Laureate of the United States from 1987 to 1988 and was awarded a second Pulitzer Prize for his "New and Collected Poems" in 1989. His translations of Molière's plays, in particular, have been lauded for their fidelity and poetic grace.

Literary Works Beyond Poetry

Beyond his celebrated poetry, Richard Wilbur also authored prose works, including "Responses: Prose Pieces 1953-1976" and "The Catbird’s Song: Prose Pieces 1963-1995," which encompass a range of his non-poetic writings such as essays, lectures, and criticism. His adeptness with language extended to children's literature, with titles like "Loudmouse" and "Opposites" showcasing his playful use of rhyme and meter. Wilbur's translations of French classics by playwrights such as Molière, Racine, and Corneille have been widely acclaimed and adopted for their accessibility and lyrical quality.

The Legacy of Richard Wilbur

The passing of Richard Wilbur in 2017 brought to a close a prolific and influential literary career. His body of work, which often diverged from the prevailing literary trends of his time, has left an indelible mark on American literature. Wilbur's poetry, celebrated for its formal beauty and intellectual wit, continues to be revered for its ability to articulate the complexities of life with both precision and musicality. His enduring legacy as a poet, translator, and educator stands as a testament to his belief in the transformative power of language and the enduring relevance of poetry.