Joseph Auslander

Date of Birth: October 11, 1897

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: June 22, 1965

Biography

Joseph Auslander was an American poet and a literary figure renowned for his contributions to 20th-century American poetry. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Auslander spent his early years in New York City, where he developed a passion for literature and writing. He attended Harvard University, where he further honed his craft and produced his first collection of poetry, “Sunrise Trumpets,” in 1924. In the subsequent years, Auslander published several more volumes of poetry that earned him critical acclaim. Auslander is perhaps best known for his role as the first Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, a position now known as the U.S. Poet Laureate. He served from 1937 to 1941, and during his tenure, he was instrumental in promoting poetry and literature across the nation. His poetry often focused on themes of patriotism, courage, and the human spirit, which resonated especially during World War II. In addition to his poetry, Auslander collaborated with his wife, Audrey Wurdemann, who was also a distinguished poet and the youngest recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Together, they edited anthologies and contributed significantly to American letters. Auslander’s legacy is marked by his dedication to the arts and his influence on American poetry, which continues to be celebrated.

5 Interesting Facts about Joseph Auslander

1. Joseph Auslander was the first person to hold the position of Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, now known as the U.S. Poet Laureate.

2. He was awarded the Robert Frost Medal in 1964, recognizing his lifetime achievements in poetry.

3. Auslander served as a professor of poetry at Columbia University and the University of Virginia.

4. His wife, Audrey Wurdemann, was the youngest person ever to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.

5. Auslander was known for his patriotic poetry, particularly during World War II, which earned him praise and recognition.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joseph Auslander

1. “Poetry is the universal language which the heart holds with nature and itself.”

2. “Inspiration does not come like a bolt, nor is it kinetic, energetic striving, but it comes to us slowly and quietly and all the time.”

3. “The poet’s voice need not merely be the record of man, it can be one of the props, the pillars to help him endure and prevail.”

4. “Writing is both mask and unveiling.”

5. “A poet’s autobiography is his poetry. Anything else is just a footnote.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific financial details are not well-documented, Joseph Auslander’s highest net worth is estimated to have been modest, primarily derived from his academic positions, poetry publications, and contributions as Consultant in Poetry.