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What is the history behind free verse poetry?

Roxana Wims

Free verse poetry is a form of poetic expression that does not adhere to traditional rules and structure of poetry. It is a more modern form of poetry that allows the poet to express themselves in a more free-flowing and natural manner.

The history of free verse poetry can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th century when poets such as Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, and T.S. Eliot began to experiment with new forms of poetic expression. These poets were seeking to break away from the strict rules and structure of traditional poetry, and to create a more personal and expressive form of poetry.

Whitman's "Leaves of Grass" is often considered to be one of the first works of free verse poetry in the English language. The book was published in 1855 and contained a collection of poems that celebrated the beauty of America and the individuality of its people. It was written in a style that was completely different from the traditional poetic forms of the time, and was greatly influential on the development of free verse.

Emily Dickinson is another poet who is often associated with the development of free verse. She wrote highly personal and emotional poems that often broke free from traditional poetic structures. Her work was published posthumously, and her unconventional style of poetry greatly influenced the development of modern poetry.

T.S. Eliot is another poet who is credited with contributing to the development of free verse. His poem, "The Waste Land," is often described as a masterpiece of modernist poetry, and it is characterized by its fragmented structure and lack of traditional poetic form.

Overall, the history of free verse poetry is one that is closely tied to the development of modernism in literature. As poets began to break free from traditional forms of expression, they opened up new avenues for artistic exploration and self-expression.

In conclusion, the history of free verse poetry is a fascinating and complex subject that continues to be studied and explored by literary scholars and enthusiasts alike. As poetry continues to evolve and change, it is likely that we will see new forms of expression emerge, and free verse will continue to play an important role in the development of modern poetry.