Lamia (eBook)

John Keats (1795–1821) stands as one of the most revered figures in British Romantic poetry, best known for the rich imagery and emotional intensity of his odes and narrative poems. Keats, born in London, embarked on a medical career before his poetic inclinations took precedence. His foray into literature produced masterpieces that continue to captivate readers for their lyrical beauty and philosophical depth. Despite his brief career, interrupted by his untimely death from tuberculosis at the age of 25, Keats's work has left an indelible mark on English literature. Among his notable works is 'Lamia', a narrative poem that invokes the ancient myth of a beautiful serpent woman who becomes human. This poem, like many of Keats's works, is marked by its vivid imagery, sensuous language, and exploration of themes such as desire, transformation, and the fleeting nature of happiness. 'Lamia' epitomizes Keats's stylistic and thematic preoccupations, demonstrating his keen ability to blend classical mythology with the psychological complexity of his characters. His oeuvre, though limited in quantity, is distinguished by its quality, and Keats remains a central figure in the Romantic canon, his work inspiring a legion of poets that followed.