Poems — Volume 2

"Poems — Volume 2" by George Meredith is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th century. The volume showcases a diverse array of themes and subjects, ranging from nature and human connection to introspection and philosophical contemplation. Meredith's work often intertwines personal emotion with broader societal reflections, making it resonate with readers interested in both lyrical beauty and deep thematic exploration. The opening of this collection sets the tone with its heartfelt dedications and poems that address personal sentiments and observations. The initial pieces reflect on themes of friendship, mortality, and the passage of time, exemplified through imagery and emotional depth. For instance, the poem "TO J. M." speaks of fate and human endeavor, while "LINES TO A FRIEND VISITING AMERICA" expresses a poignant farewell and hopes for rekindled connections. The subsequent poems delve into the beauty of nature and the complex relationship between time and sentiment, showcasing Meredith's mastery in blending personal experience with universal truths. Overall, the beginning of this volume hints at a rich tapestry of language and thought that invites readers to ponder alongside the poet. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George Meredith was an English novelist and poet of the Victorian era. At first, his focus was poetry, influenced by John Keats among others, but Meredith gradually established a reputation as a novelist. The Ordeal of Richard Feverel (1859) briefly scandalised Victorian literary circles. Of his later novels, the most enduring is The Egoist (1879), though in his lifetime his greatest success was Diana of the Crossways (1885). His novels were innovative in their attention to characters' psychology, and also portrayed social change. His style, in both poetry and prose, was noted for its syntactic complexity; Oscar Wilde likened it to "chaos illumined by brilliant flashes of lightning". Meredith was an encourager of other novelists, as well as an influence on them; among those to benefit were Robert Louis Stevenson and George Gissing. Meredith was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature seven times.