Things That Grow
Trees whose feet, nimble and brown,…
Hazel Hall (1886-1924) was an American poet renowned for her poignant and introspective verse. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Hall moved to Portland, Oregon, with her family at a young age. At the age of 12, she was struck by scarlet fever, which left her permanently disabled and confined to a wheelchair. Despite her physical limitations, Hall's keen observational skills and deep emotional insight flourished through her writing.
Hall's poetry often reflects her confined world, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. She gained recognition for her collections "Curtains" (1921) and "Walkers" (1923), which were acclaimed for their vivid imagery and emotional depth. Her work delves into themes of isolation, longing, and the passage of time, resonating deeply with readers and critics alike.
Though her life was marked by physical suffering, Hall's literary contributions left a lasting impact. She was celebrated during her lifetime, with her work appearing in distinguished publications such as The New Republic and The Nation. Hazel Hall's legacy endures through her rich, evocative poetry, offering a window into the resilient spirit and profound inner life of a remarkable woman confined by her physical circumstances, yet unfettered in her creative expression.