Edward Young

Date of Birth: June 3, 1683

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: April 5, 1765

Biography

Edward Young was an influential English poet, best known for his work “Night Thoughts,” a nine-part series of poems that reflect on life, death, and immortality. Born in 1683 in Upham, Hampshire, England, Young was educated at Winchester College and later at New College, Oxford. He initially aimed for a career in law, but his passion for poetry soon took precedence. Young’s early works, including “The Last Day” (1713) and “The Force of Religion” (1714), gained him considerable recognition. Young was also known for his tragic personal life, which greatly influenced his writings. The death of his wife, Elizabeth Lee, and their two children deeply impacted him and inspired much of his later poetry. “Night Thoughts,” published between 1742 and 1745, is considered his magnum opus and remains a significant contribution to English literature. Apart from his literary achievements, Young was ordained as a clergyman in 1728 and served as rector of Welwyn, Hertfordshire, where he spent the remainder of his life. Edward Young passed away on April 5, 1765, leaving behind a legacy of profound and contemplative poetry.

5 Interesting Facts about Edward Young

1. Edward Young was a close friend of Alexander Pope and a member of the literary circle that included Jonathan Swift and John Gay.

2. His work “Night Thoughts” was illustrated by the famous artist William Blake in 1797.

3. Young served as a chaplain to the Duke of Wharton and later to King George II.

4. He was known for his satirical works, including “The Love of Fame, the Universal Passion” (1725-1728).

5. Young’s poetry often explored themes of morality, religion, and the human condition.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Edward Young

1. “Procrastination is the thief of time.”

2. “Our birth is nothing but our death begun.”

3. “Too low they build, who build beneath the stars.”

4. “How blessings brighten as they take their flight.”

5. “By night an atheist half believes in God.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The concept of net worth as we understand it today was not applicable during Edward Young’s time. However, he received a comfortable income from his ecclesiastical positions and the patronage of wealthy benefactors.

Children

Edward Young had one known child, Frederick Young, who was born to his wife, Elizabeth Lee. Tragically, Frederick died at a young age, which deeply affected Young and influenced his later works.