William Wilfred Campbell was born on June 15, 1860, in Newmarket, Canada. His father, Reverend Thomas Swainston Campbell, was an Anglican clergyman. Growing up, Campbell was exposed to the arts and literature at an early age, which sparked his interest in poetry.
In 1885, Campbell was ordained as an Episcopal priest and was appointed to a New England parish. However, in 1891, he suffered a crisis of faith and ultimately resigned from the ministry. This turning point in his life marked a shift towards a career in writing and poetry.
Although Campbell is best known for his poetry, he also explored other forms of writing, including drama and fiction. Over the course of his career, he wrote more than ten plays, with only half being published during his lifetime. Additionally, he penned two novels, "Ian of the Orcades" and "A Beautiful Rebel," both of which failed to gain critical or commercial success.
William Wilfred Campbell is often classified as one of Canada's "Confederation Poets," a group that also includes Bliss Carman, Archibald Lampman, and Duncan Campbell Scott. By the end of the 19th century, he was considered the unofficial poet laureate of Canada, thanks in part to his 1889 collection, "Lake Lyrics and Other Poems," inspired by the stunning scenery of the Lake Huron-Georgian Bay area near his home.
Throughout his career, Campbell drew inspiration from a variety of poets and writers, including Robert Burns, Edgar Allan Poe, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Their works influenced his own writing style and themes, helping shape his unique voice as a poet.
William Wilfred Campbell was married to Mary DeBelle, and the couple had four children together: Margery, Faith, Basil, and Dorothy. Despite his personal struggles and setbacks, Campbell found solace and purpose in his family, who provided support and encouragement throughout his literary endeavors.
William Wilfred Campbell's legacy as a poet and writer continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike. His exploration of nature, faith, and the human experience through verse has left an indelible mark on Canadian literature, solidifying his place as a significant figure in the country's literary history.