John Clare

Date of Birth: July 13, 1793

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 20, 1864

Biography

John Clare was an English poet born on July 13, 1793, in the village of Helpston, Northamptonshire. Known for his celebration of the English countryside and his lamentation of its disruption, Clare’s works often reflect his deep connection to rural life and nature. He was the son of a poor farm laborer and received only a basic education before working in various agricultural jobs. Despite his humble beginnings, Clare’s talent for poetry emerged early, and he published his first collection, “Poems Descriptive of Rural Life and Scenery,” in 1820, which gained him considerable attention. Clare’s poetry is characterized by its vivid descriptions of nature and rural life, as well as its use of local dialect. However, his later years were marked by mental illness, which led to his confinement in asylums for much of the last 27 years of his life. Despite these challenges, he continued to write prolifically, leaving behind a rich legacy of poetry that has been celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth.

5 Interesting Facts about John Clare

1. John Clare is often referred to as “the peasant poet” due to his humble origins and his focus on rural themes.

2. Clare walked over 80 miles from the asylum in Epping Forest to his home in Northamptonshire in 1841, driven by his longing for his native landscape.

3. His first book of poetry was published with the help of a local bookseller who recognized his talent.

4. Clare’s mental health deteriorated significantly in the 1830s, leading to his long-term confinement in asylums.

5. The John Clare Society was established in 1981 to promote the study and appreciation of his work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Clare

1. “I am—yet what I am none cares or knows.”

2. “If life had a second edition, how I would correct the proofs.”

3. “I found the poems in the fields, and only wrote them down.”

4. “Poetry is not the proper antithesis to prose, but to science.”

5. “He could not die when trees were green, for he loved the time too well.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Clare did not achieve significant financial success during his lifetime. His highest net worth is not documented, but he lived a life of poverty and struggled financially throughout his life.

Children

John Clare married Martha (“Patty”) Turner in 1820. They had seven children together: Anna Maria, John, Eliza Louisa, William Parker, Frederick, Sophia, and Charles.