Shelley (eBook)

Francis Thompson (1859–1907) was an English poet and critic, known for his intense devotional poetry and ascetic life. His works frequently echo the themes of spiritual longing and the pursuit of the divine, deeply influenced by his Catholic faith and Romantic literature. Thompson is perhaps best remembered for his poem 'The Hound of Heaven,' a poignant depiction of God's relentless pursuit of the human soul. Beyond his poetry, Thompson also engaged in literary criticism. His book on Percy Bysshe Shelley, simply titled 'Shelley' (1909), provided insightful analysis of the Romantic poet's work, contributing to the body of scholarly research on Shelley's literary legacy. Thompson's own literary style often mirrored the Romantic poets, imbued with rich imagery and complex versification. Despite struggling with addiction and living in destitution for parts of his life, Thompson's work has earned him a respected place among Victorian poets, recognized posthumously for his profound spiritual and poetic sensibilities. His life and works continue to be studied for their intricate blend of mysticism, melancholy, and lyrical brilliance.