At the Gate of Death
Choose a poem that finds you, as Coleridge says, and read it deeply and often,…
Harold Bloom
Harold Bloom (1930-2019) was a preeminent American literary critic and Sterling Professor of Humanities at Yale University. Born in New York City, Bloom was the son of Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe. He earned his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and a Ph.D. from Yale, where he would later return as a faculty member. Over a prolific career spanning more than five decades, Bloom authored over 40 books, including the seminal "The Anxiety of Influence" (1973), which explores the psychological struggles between poets and their predecessors. Known for his prodigious memory and deep love for the Western literary canon, Bloom was also a fervent advocate for the intrinsic value of classic literature. His magnum opus, "The Western Canon" (1994), championed the enduring significance of great literary works. Bloom was not without controversy; his staunch defense of the Western literary tradition and criticism of modern literary trends often sparked debate. Beyond the academic realm, Bloom's influence extended through his teaching, mentoring generations of students who would go on to shape literary criticism. He was a recipient of numerous accolades, including the prestigious MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship. Harold Bloom's erudite and often provocative insights left an indelible mark on the world of literary scholarship.