October 2014 marks the centenary of the birth of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas (1914-1953), one of the twentieth century’s most celebrated young poets. His poignant poems about death, lost innocence, and memory such as “Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night” (1951) engaged a huge variety of readers and listeners alike—from Beatle John Lennon, who placed his portrait on the iconic cover of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, to modernist poet T.S. Elliot. During World War II, Thomas worked for the BBC writing scripts and broadcasting. His elegant yet powerful delivery put him in high demand for performing in radio plays, reciting poetry, and discussing literary topics.
Photo above: Dylan and Caitlin Thomas's boathouse in Laugharne, Wales. Phograph by Rollie McKenna, September 1957. MSS 103 John Malcolm Brinnin papers, Special Collections, University of Delaware Library.
Credits
Curated by Maureen Cech. October 1-December 19, 2014
