Milton James Rhode Acorn was born on March 30, 1923, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada. He grew up on the small island with his younger sister, experiencing a simple yet profound childhood. Acorn's family instilled in him a love for literature and poetry from a young age, which would ultimately shape his future career.
Acorn's journey into the world of poetry began when he published his debut collection, "In Love and Anger," in 1956. This work garnered attention for its raw emotion and powerful themes. A decade later, Acorn ventured into the realm of journalism, establishing the Vancouver newspaper, The Georgia Straight. Through his writing, he aimed to give voice to the marginalized and provoke thought among his readers.
Acorn's life took a drastic turn when he was wounded during World War II. After his service, he returned to Canada and settled in Toronto, where he resided at the Hotel Waverly on a disability pension. Despite the physical and emotional scars he carried from the war, Acorn remained resilient and committed to his craft.
Acorn's personal life was as tumultuous as his poetry. He was briefly married to fellow poet Gwendolyn MacEwan, a relationship marked by creative collaboration and intense passion. Despite the ups and downs of his personal life, Acorn found solace in his writing and continued to push boundaries with his work.
Throughout his career, Acorn received numerous accolades for his poetic prowess. He was honored with both the Governor General's Award and the Canadian Poets Award, cementing his status as a literary giant. His poetry collections, including "The Island Means Minago" and "I've Tasted My Blood," are cherished by readers around the world for their depth and insight.
Acorn's impact on Canadian literature is undeniable, his words serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who dare to dream and create. Despite his struggles and hardships, Acorn's poetry remains a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring spirit of the human soul.