George Oppen

Date of Birth: April 24, 1908

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: July 7, 1984

Biography

George Oppen was an influential American poet and member of the Objectivist group of poets, which also included figures like Louis Zukofsky and Charles Reznikoff. Born in New Rochelle, New York, Oppen’s work is known for its precision, clarity, and philosophical depth. He was raised in a wealthy, assimilated Jewish family but left college to travel and work various jobs. His early literary career was interrupted by his service in World War II, after which he turned to Marxism and political activism. Oppen’s poetry career was revived in the 1960s, and he received significant acclaim for his work. His collection “Of Being Numerous” won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1969. Oppen’s later years were marked by a return to poetry that dealt with themes of existence, community, and the human condition.

5 Interesting Facts about George Oppen

1. George Oppen was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1969 for his collection “Of Being Numerous.”

2. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, earning a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart for his bravery.

3. Oppen was a key figure in the Objectivist movement, which emphasized clear, direct language in poetry.

4. After World War II, Oppen and his wife Mary were investigated by the FBI for their leftist political activities, leading them to live in Mexico for several years.

5. Despite his early success, Oppen took a substantial break from writing poetry, only returning to it seriously in the 1960s.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Oppen

1. “Clarity, clarity, surely clarity is the most beautiful thing in the world, A limited, limiting clarity I have not and never did have any motive of poetry But to achieve clarity.”

2. “The self is no mystery, the mystery is That there is something for us to stand on.”

3. “There are situations which cannot honorably be met by art.”

4. “The mind is not the heart. I may yet live, as I know others live, To wish in vain to let go the mind.”

5. “The way the world is, is the truth.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no public information available regarding George Oppen’s net worth, as he was primarily known for his literary contributions rather than financial success.