Edgell Rickword was born on October 22, 1898 in England. He grew up in Essex, where he developed a passion for literature from a young age. Rickword's early life was marked by his deep interest in both poetry and politics, a passion that would shape his future path.
When World War I broke out, Rickword enlisted in the British Army and served during the conflict. His experiences on the battlefield would later influence his poetry and writing, as he witnessed the horrors of war firsthand.
After the war, Rickword briefly studied at the University of Oxford before deciding to pursue a career in writing and journalism. He soon became known for his work as a journalist, editor, and literary critic, with a particular focus on poetry.
Throughout his career, Rickword was associated with the Communist Party, a political affiliation that informed much of his writing. He became known for his advocacy for social and political change, using his poetry and writing as a platform to express his beliefs.
Despite his busy career, Rickword also found time for personal pursuits. He married and settled down in Essex, where he continued to write and publish his poetry collections. His life was marked by a deep commitment to his work and his beliefs, with his writing serving as a reflection of his personal and political convictions.
Edgell Rickword's poetry has had a lasting impact on the literary world, with his collections such as "Behind the Eyes" and "Invocation to Angels" earning him critical acclaim. His unique blend of poetry and politics set him apart from his contemporaries, with his work continuing to be studied and celebrated today.
In addition to his poetry, Rickword's role as a literary critic and editor also left a mark on the literary landscape. His reviews and essays provided valuable insights into the work of his peers, including a famous review of T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land" that highlighted his keen eye for critique and analysis.
Overall, Edgell Rickword's contributions to the world of poetry and literature are still being felt today, with his work standing as a testament to the power of words to inspire change and challenge the status quo.
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