James Schuyler

Date of Birth: November 9, 1923

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: April 12, 1991

Biography

James Marcus Schuyler was an influential American poet, born on November 9, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois. He was a central figure in the New York School of poetry, a group that included John Ashbery, Frank O’Hara, and Kenneth Koch. Schuyler’s work is characterized by its keen observation, wit, and candor, often focusing on the minutiae of everyday life. His poetry is celebrated for its conversational tone and vivid imagery. Schuyler served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later attended the University of Florence in Italy under the G.I. Bill. Upon his return to the United States, he worked various jobs, including as a secretary for the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. It was during this period that he became deeply involved in the city’s vibrant artistic and literary scenes. Schuyler published several collections of poetry, including “Freely Espousing” (1969), “The Crystal Lithium” (1972), “Hymn to Life” (1974), and “A Few Days” (1985). His book “The Morning of the Poem” (1980) received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Schuyler also wrote novels and collaborated with other artists, contributing to the creation of multimedia works that blended visual art and literature. James Schuyler passed away on April 12, 1991, in Manhattan, New York, leaving behind a legacy as one of the 20th century’s most distinctive and beloved poets.

5 Interesting Facts about James Schuyler

1. James Schuyler won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1981 for his book “The Morning of the Poem.”

2. He was a close friend and collaborator of notable artists like Fairfield Porter and Alex Katz.

3. Schuyler’s poetry is often associated with the New York School, a movement that combined a focus on contemporary urban life with a playful, experimental approach to language.

4. He struggled with mental health issues throughout his life and spent time in various psychiatric hospitals.

5. Schuyler’s work often reflects his deep appreciation for nature, with many poems vividly detailing landscapes, gardens, and weather.