William Stafford

Date of Birth: January 17, 1914

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: August 28, 1993

Biography

William Stafford was an American poet known for his accessible and reflective verse. Born in Hutchinson, Kansas, Stafford’s poetry often explored themes of nature, human relationships, and the moral conscience. He attended the University of Kansas and later earned his Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. Stafford’s career as a poet flourished after his service as a conscientious objector during World War II, a period that deeply influenced his writing. He published more than fifty books of poetry and prose, including the highly acclaimed “Traveling Through the Dark,” which won the National Book Award in 1963. Stafford’s work was marked by its simplicity, directness, and profound thoughtfulness. He served as the Poet Laureate of Oregon and received numerous accolades throughout his life. Stafford’s legacy continues to influence and inspire poets and readers worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about William Stafford

1. William Stafford served as the Poet Laureate of Oregon from 1975 to 1990.

2. He was a conscientious objector during World War II and worked in civilian public service camps.

3. His poem “Traveling Through the Dark” won the National Book Award for Poetry in 1963.

4. Stafford was an advocate for peace and social justice, themes that frequently appeared in his work.

5. He was known for his daily writing practice, often rising early in the morning to write.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Stafford

1. “The poet must be the custodian of language.”

2. “A writer is not so much someone who has something to say as he is someone who has found a process that will bring about new things he would not have thought of if he had not started to say them.”

3. “I must be willingly fallible in order to deserve a place in the realm where miracles happen.”

4. “It is important that awake people be awake, or a breaking line may discourage them back to sleep.”

5. “Ask me whether what I have done is my life.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

William Stafford’s net worth was never publicly disclosed, and as a poet, it’s unlikely he amassed significant wealth. His contributions were more cultural and intellectual rather than financial.

Children

William Stafford had four children: Bret, Kim, Kit, and Barbara Stafford. His son, Kim Stafford, is also a noted poet and has written extensively about his father’s life and work.