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Ernest Dowson was a prominent poet of the Decadent movement, whose works like 'Non sum qualis eram bonae sub regno Cynarae' explore themes of love, melancholy, and mortality. Despite his brief life, Dowson's contributions to English literature, including his membership in the Rhymers' Club alongside Yeats and Wilde, and his collections 'Verses' and 'Decorations in Verse and Prose,' have left a lasting legacy. His poetry continues to resonate for its emotional depth and lyrical beauty.
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Dowson's family owned a dry-docking business, which allowed him to pursue his interest in the arts
Affinity for French and Latin Literature
Despite his interrupted education, Dowson developed a deep love for French and Latin literature
Dowson attended Oxford and began publishing poetry, including his first known poem "To a Little Girl."
Dowson became a member of the Rhymers' Club, a literary group that included W.B. Yeats and Oscar Wilde
Inspiration from Personal Struggles
Dowson's work often reflected his own personal struggles, including unrequited love and declining health
Notable Poems
Dowson's most celebrated works include "Non sum qualis eram bonae sub regno Cynarae," which captures the pain of unrequited love
Themes of Melancholy and Mortality
Dowson's poetry often explores themes of melancholy, mortality, and existential despair
Dowson's work, particularly "Non sum qualis eram bonae sub regno Cynarae," is considered a defining piece of the Decadent movement
Despite his short life, Dowson's literary contributions continue to be celebrated for their emotional resonance and stylistic grace
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Ernest Dowson's birth date and place
Born on August 2, 1867, in Lee, London, England.
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Ernest Dowson's parents and their business
Son of Alfred and Annie Dowson, owners of a dry-docking business.
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Influence of European travels on Dowson
Interrupted education due to travels, but gained deep affinity for French and Latin literature.
