Waldo Williams was born on September 30, 1904, in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales. He was the son of a school teacher and grew up surrounded by literature and learning. Williams showed an early interest in poetry and language, which would later define his career as a poet.
He attended the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, where he studied literature and philosophy. It was during his time at university that he began to explore his Welsh identity and the rich literary tradition of Wales.
After graduating in 1926, Williams embarked on a career in teaching. He worked as a school teacher, passing on his love of literature and language to the next generation. However, his true passion lay in poetry.
Williams wrote primarily in the Welsh language, producing works that explored deep philosophical questions and the essence of humanity. His poems, such as "Pa beth yw dyn?" ("What is it to be human?") and "Cofio" ("Remembering"), have become celebrated for their depth and emotional resonance.
Throughout his career, Williams was deeply influenced by the work of American poet Walt Whitman. He admired Whitman's celebration of the individual and his exploration of human consciousness, themes that would also feature prominently in Williams' own writing.
In 1941, Williams married Linda Llewellyn. Unfortunately, their happiness was short-lived, as Linda passed away just two years later. The loss of his wife deeply affected Williams, and he channeled his grief into his poetry, producing some of his most poignant and introspective works during this period.
Williams was known for his strong convictions and beliefs. During the Korean War era, he declared himself a pacifist and refused to support any form of violence. His principles led to his arrest for refusing to pay taxes, a stand that garnered both admiration and criticism from the public.
Waldo Williams is remembered as one of the most important Welsh poets of the twentieth century. His profound exploration of the human experience and his deep connection to his Welsh heritage have earned him a lasting place in the literary canon.
His poetry continues to inspire readers and scholars alike, with his works being studied and celebrated for their emotional depth and philosophical insight. Through his writing, Williams sought to understand the complexities of existence and to connect with readers on a profound level.
Waldo Williams passed away on January 9, 1971, leaving behind a rich legacy of poetry that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.