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Alfred Austin (Punch)
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Alfred Austin (Punch)
ALFRED AUSTIN, indifferent and unlikeable poet whose profuse output wins him more mockery than praise from the critics but, astonishingly, gets him appointed Poet Laureate, 1896. Date: 1835 - 1913
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Media ID 14296662
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1835 1896 Appointed Astonishingly Austin Critics Indifferent Laureate Mockery Output Praise Punch Wins Profuse
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph, Alfred Austin, also known as "Punch" Austin, is depicted with an indifferent expression on his face, reflecting the critical reception of his prolific poetic output. Born in 1835, Austin's literary career was marked by a profuse output that earned him more mockery than praise from the literary world. Despite the scathing criticism, Austin's persistence paid off in an astonishing way in 1896 when he was appointed as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom. Austin's appointment to the prestigious position came as a surprise to many, given the lack of enthusiasm for his work from the critics. His poetry was often criticized for its lack of originality and depth, with some going so far as to label him an "unlikeable" poet. However, Austin's appointment was not without merit. He had a strong connection to the royal family, having served as a page to Queen Victoria as a young man, and his poetry reflected the Victorian era's values and sensibilities. Despite the controversy surrounding his appointment, Austin continued to write and publish poetry throughout his career. His works were often featured in popular magazines and newspapers, and he remained a fixture in the literary world until his death in 1913. This photograph captures a moment in the life of a poet whose work divided opinion but whose tenacity and connections ultimately led him to be recognized with one of the highest honors in British literary history. Austin's story serves as a reminder that artistic merit is not always the only factor in achieving success and recognition in the arts. His legacy continues to be debated among scholars and literary critics, making him a fascinating figure in the history of British poetry.
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