Classic and Contemporary Poets

Joseph Auslander (1897–1965) was an American poet and novelist, best known for his traditionalist approach to poetry during a time when Modernism was gaining ground. While he may not be as widely read today as some of his contemporaries, Auslander's contributions to the poetic landscape, including his role as the first Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, warrant a closer look.

Literary Background and Early Influences

Born in Philadelphia, Auslander grew up in a culturally rich environment that would later influence his work. He attended Harvard University where he came under the mentorship of George Lyman Kittredge, the preeminent Shakespeare scholar. The classical traditions of European literature significantly impacted him, as did the emerging currents of Romanticism and Modernism. Nevertheless, he often leaned towards a more traditional and conservative poetic form, which both distinguished and marginalized him within the literary community.

Poetic Schools and Movements

Auslander's work stands as a bridge between the late Romantic era and the burgeoning Modernist movement. His poems, often steeped in sentiment and formalist structures, contrast with the fragmented, free-verse styles popular among his contemporaries. Auslander wasn't associated directly with any particular school of thought or movement, but his work has often been compared to that of the late Romantics, as well as traditionalists like Robert Frost.

Phases and Themes in Poetic Oeuvre

Auslander's poetry underwent several phases, shaped by both personal and global events. His earlier works, like "Sunrise Trumpets," exude youthful optimism and romantic exuberance. The Great Depression and the World Wars, however, left a sobering impact on him. Themes of mortality, existential angst, and social justice began to creep into his later works, such as "The Unconquerable" and "Letter to an Imaginary Friend."

One constant theme across these phases was his exploration of love, often characterized by a deep romanticism that seemed at odds with the more cynical or detached attitudes of the time. Another recurring theme was his affinity for nature, reminiscent of the Romantic tradition. His later works also reflected a grappling with spiritual questions and a tentative reconciliation with mortality.

Influence and Honors

Auslander had a unique honor for a poet—serving as the Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress from 1937 to 1941. While his works may not have left an indelible impact on the world of poetry, they were widely read in his time. His thematic consistency and traditionalist style were both lauded and criticized, but they offered an alternative to the radical experiments of Modernist poetry.

Conclusion

Joseph Auslander presents a fascinating case of a poet caught between eras, working within a traditional framework while the literary world around him rapidly evolved. While he may not have been revolutionary in his stylistic or thematic choices, his works offer a sincere and often poignant perspective on life's universal themes. His role as the first Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress also cements his place in American literary history, as does his indelible contribution to preserving the tradition of formalist verse during a time of great upheaval and change.

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