Sun-Up, and Other Poems (eBook)

Lola Ridge (1873–1941) was a trailblazing Irish-American poet and influential editor, renowned for her avant-garde style and radical political themes. Born in Dublin and having immigrated to the United States in 1907, Ridge grew to prominence in the literary world with the publication of 'Sun-Up, and Other Poems' in 1920. This collection showcased her emblematic blend of lyrical intensity and poignant social commentary, touching on issues like immigration, labor rights, and gender. Ridge's work was instrumental in shaping the modernist poetry movement, as she carved out space for distinctively political poetry within a sphere that often leaned toward aestheticism. A prominent figure among activist poets, Ridge's form and content prefigured themes that would become central to American poetics in the ensuing decades. Her stark imagery and free verse mirrored the chaotic rhythms of the urban landscapes she often depicted, as well as the emotional turmoil of her protagonists. Ridge served as an editor for avant-garde publications such as 'Others' and played a crucial role in fostering the careers of other poets. Her influence extended beyond her own literary achievements, as she engaged in mentoring and advocating for social justice through her art and actions. Though her name may not echo as loudly as some of her contemporaries, Ridge's work endures as a poignant commentary on early twentieth-century life and a testament to the power of poetry as a vehicle for change.