Carl Sandburg

Poetry

• Poems Done on a Late Night Car

Biography

Born on January 6, 1878, in Galesburg, Illinois, Sandburg was destined to become one of America's most cherished literary figures, immortalizing the spirit of a nation through his evocative verse and prose.

The son of Swedish immigrants, Sandburg's early years were marked by humble beginnings and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. His diverse experiences – from working odd jobs as a milkman and railroad laborer to serving in the Spanish-American War – served as a wellspring of inspiration for his literary endeavors.

As a poet, Sandburg's style is characterized by its free verse, colloquial language, and vivid imagery that captures the essence of the American experience. His celebrated poetry collection, "Chicago Poems" (1916), introduces us to the eponymous city, teeming with life, energy, and the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants. Sandburg's later collections, such as "Cornhuskers" (1918) and "Smoke and Steel" (1920), further solidify his reputation as the quintessential voice of the American heartland.

But Sandburg's talents were not limited to poetry. A versatile writer, he also made significant contributions to American history and folklore. His monumental biography, "Abraham Lincoln: The Prairie Years and The War Years" (1939, 1940), is a testament to his skill as a historian and his deep admiration for the 16th president.

Carl Sandburg's life and work serve as a testament to the power of literature in capturing the spirit and resilience of a nation. His poetry, steeped in the experiences and voices of everyday Americans, remains a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of the unyielding strength of the human spirit.