Poems

"Poems" by John L. Stoddard is a collection of poetry written in the early 20th century. Featuring a variety of themes ranging from personal reflections and nature to social commentary and philosophical musings, the poems are imbued with Stoddard's rich imagery and emotive language. This collection showcases the poet's exploration of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life, reflecting the sentiments of a transitional period in literature and culture. At the start of this collection, readers are introduced to the poem "Proem," which encapsulates the experiences of an aging violinist. The poet portrays the exquisite rapture and solitude the musician finds while playing, juxtaposed against the perception of madness by those around him. This opening sets a contemplative tone, as it delves into themes of artistic passion and the struggle for recognition often faced by poets. Additionally, "My Promenade Solitaire" follows, portraying the beauty of solitude in nature, offering a glimpse into the poet's introspective moments amid the demands of life. Through vivid images and reflective thoughts, Stoddard invites readers to ponder the universal questions of existence and creativity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Lawson Stoddard was an American lecturer, author and photographer. He was a pioneer in the use of the stereopticon or magic lantern, adding photographs to his popular lectures about his travels around the world. Because he published books related to his travels, he is credited with developing the genre of travelogues.