Al Purdy

Date of Birth: December 30, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: April 21, 2000

Biography

Alfred Wellington Purdy, commonly known as Al Purdy, was a renowned Canadian poet, often celebrated as one of the most influential poets of the 20th century in Canada. Born in Wooler, Ontario, his poetic voice was distinctive for its raw and authentic portrayal of Canadian life. Purdy’s writing career spanned several decades, during which he published 39 books of poetry, a novel, and several collections of essays and memoirs. Purdy’s early life was marked by hardship, and he left school at the age of 13. His journey as a poet began in earnest while he was serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. After the war, he worked various jobs, including as a laborer and a radio scriptwriter, before dedicating himself fully to writing in the 1950s. A key figure in the Canadian literary scene, Purdy’s works often explored themes of nature, identity, and the human condition, with a particular focus on the Canadian landscape and experience. His poetry earned him numerous awards, including the Governor General’s Award for Poetry twice, in 1965 and 1986. Purdy’s legacy is honored through various literary accolades and the preservation of his A-frame house in Ameliasburgh, Ontario, which has become a retreat for writers.

5 Interesting Facts about Al Purdy

1. Al Purdy left school at the age of 13 and educated himself through voracious reading.

2. His A-frame house in Ameliasburgh, Ontario, became a meeting place for many Canadian writers and is now a literary landmark.

3. Purdy served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II.

4. He won the Governor General’s Award for Poetry twice, in 1965 and 1986.

5. A bronze statue of Al Purdy stands in Queen’s Park, Toronto, commemorating his contribution to Canadian literature.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Al Purdy

1. “A poem is never finished, only abandoned.”

2. “There is no one way to write a poem. There are a thousand ways to write a poem.”

3. “The poet doesn’t invent. He listens.”

4. “I am a sensitive man, but I don’t show it.”

5. “Poetry is just the evidence of life. If your life is burning well, poetry is just the ash.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Al Purdy’s highest net worth is not widely documented, but his wealth was primarily in his literary legacy rather than financial terms. His contributions to Canadian literature and the impact of his works are invaluable.