Hugo Ball

Date of Birth: February 22, 1886

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: September 14, 1927

Biography

Hugo Ball was a German author, poet, and one of the leading founders of the Dada movement. Born in Pirmasens, Germany, he initially studied sociology and philosophy at the universities of Munich and Heidelberg. His early career saw him engaging in various artistic pursuits, including acting and directing in theater. Ball’s dissatisfaction with the existing cultural and political systems during World War I led him to co-found the Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich, which became the birthplace of the Dada movement. His work often criticized the absurdity of war and the dehumanizing effects of industrial society. He is best known for his sound poems, especially “Karawane,” which exemplifies his innovative approach to language and art. Later in life, Ball turned towards mysticism and Catholicism, distancing himself from the Dada movement he helped create. He continued to write essays and poetry until his death in 1927.

5 Interesting Facts about Hugo Ball

1. Hugo Ball studied under the renowned sociologist Max Weber.

2. He co-founded the Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich on February 5, 1916.

3. His poem “Karawane” is a prime example of sound poetry, using nonsensical words to convey emotion and rhythm.

4. Ball was a pacifist and refused to serve in the German army during World War I, fleeing to Switzerland.

5. Later in life, he converted to Catholicism and wrote several religious essays and biographies of saints.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hugo Ball

1. “The symbolic nature of writing is such that it lacks a dimension of structure that is inherent to speech.”

2. “We loved nonsense because we detested the absurdity of the war.”

3. “Art is nothing in itself; it is only an instrument, a means of evoking that mysterious power within.”

4. “To be a Dadaist means to be against war and the bourgeois society.”

5. “Each thing of beauty is complete in itself and carries its own meaning.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hugo Ball’s net worth at the time of his death is not well-documented, but as an avant-garde artist and writer, his financial success was modest compared to mainstream standards.