The Poetical Works of Oliver Wendell Holmes — Volume 01: Earlier Poems (1830-1836)

"The Poetical Works of Oliver Wendell Holmes — Volume 01: Earlier Poems…" is a collection of poetry by Oliver Wendell Holmes, written during the early 19th century, specifically between 1830 and 1836. This volume contains various earlier poems that reflect the sentiments and themes prevalent during the Romantic period in America. The collection touches on issues of nostalgia, love, and the beauty of life, showcasing Holmes's wit, humor, and keen observation of human nature. The book contains several notable works, including "Old Ironsides," which defends the historic USS Constitution, and "The Last Leaf," which reflects on aging and memory through the lens of a single old man, symbolizing those left behind as time passes. Other poems explore themes of nature, personal reflections, and societal commentary, often with a lighthearted tone. Holmes’s poetry is characterized by a melodic quality and often conveys a mix of seriousness and playfulness, inviting readers to contemplate deeper meanings amid enjoyable rhythms and clever wordplay. Overall, the collection serves as a testament to the poet's ability to blend emotion with humor, making it a captivating read for poetry enthusiasts. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. was an American physician, poet, and polymath based in Boston. Grouped among the fireside poets, he was acclaimed by his peers as one of the best writers of the day. His most famous prose works are the "Breakfast-Table" series, which began with The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table (1858). He was also an important medical reformer. In addition to his work as an author and poet, Holmes also served as a physician, professor, lecturer, inventor, and, although he never practiced it, he received formal training in law.