Witter Bynner was born on October 8, 1881, in New York City, NY. He grew up in Brookline, Massachusetts, where he discovered his love for poetry at a young age. Bynner was a precocious child, showing a talent for writing from an early age.
After graduating from Harvard University, Bynner published his first poetry collection, "An Ode to Harvard," just five years later. This work marked the beginning of his successful career as a poet. Bynner's time at Harvard shaped his writing style and allowed him to explore themes that would later appear in his more well-known works.
Bynner went on to work as an editor for McClure's Magazine, where he honed his skills as a writer and critic. His keen eye for detail and his ability to capture complex emotions in his poetry set him apart from his contemporaries. Bynner's work was well-received by the literary community, and he quickly gained a reputation as a talented and innovative poet.
Despite his success as a poet, Bynner also tried his hand at teaching. He briefly taught at the University of California, Berkeley, but his tenure was cut short when he was fired for serving alcohol to his students during the Prohibition era. This incident only added to Bynner's reputation as a rebellious and unconventional figure in the literary world.
Bynner was in a long-term relationship with Robert Hunt, with whom he spent thirty years. Their partnership was a significant part of Bynner's life, providing him with love and support throughout his career. Bynner's personal relationships often influenced his work, adding depth and emotion to his poetry.
Witter Bynner's legacy as a poet is far-reaching and enduring. His best-known works, including "The Jade Mountain" and "A Book of Love," continue to be celebrated for their beauty and lyricism. Bynner's contributions to the literary world have solidified his place as one of the great American poets of his time.
Bynner was a contemporary of Aldous Huxley, another influential writer of the early 20th century. Their shared interests and experiences helped shape the literary landscape of their time, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of writers.
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