Alfred Austin

Date of Birth: May 30, 1835

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: June 2, 1913

Biography

Alfred Austin was an English poet who was born on May 30, 1835, in Headingley, Leeds, England. He was educated at Stonyhurst College and graduated from the University of London. Initially pursuing a career in law, Austin soon turned his focus to literature and politics. He was appointed Poet Laureate in 1896 after the death of Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Although his appointment was met with some controversy due to his perceived lesser talent compared to his predecessors, Austin held the position until his death in 1913. Austin’s works often focused on themes of nature, patriotism, and religion. Some of his notable collections include “The Garden that I Love,” “English Lyrics,” and “Lamia’s Winter-Quarters.” Despite his mixed reception as a poet, Austin’s contributions to English literature and his role as Poet Laureate are significant.

5 Interesting Facts about Alfred Austin

1. Alfred Austin was appointed Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom in 1896.

2. He initially pursued a career in law before dedicating himself to literature and poetry.

3. Austin’s appointment as Poet Laureate was controversial, with some critics claiming he was less talented than his predecessors.

4. He was passionate about gardening and nature, which heavily influenced his poetry.

5. Alfred Austin was also a journalist and wrote for various periodicals, including “The Standard” and “The National Review.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Alfred Austin

1. “Show me your garden and I shall tell you what you are.”

2. “A man’s reach should exceed his grasp, or what’s a heaven for?”

3. “Tears are the summer showers to the soul.”

4. “Poetry is a mirror which makes beautiful that which is distorted.”

5. “The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Alfred Austin’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a Poet Laureate and a journalist, he likely had a modest income suitable for his literary and gardening pursuits.