Witter Bynner

Witter Bynner (August 10, 1881 – June 1, 1968) was a prominent American poet, translator, and scholar known for his contributions to early 20th-century American literature. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bynner was educated at Harvard University, where he earned his degree in 1902. He gained recognition for his poetry early on, with his first collection, "An Ode to Harvard and Other Poems," published in 1907.

Bynner's literary career was marked by his diverse interests and prolific output, encompassing not only his original poetry but also significant translations, particularly of Chinese poetry. His collaboration with Sui Sin Far on translating ancient Chinese poems produced the influential work "The Jade Mountain," which helped introduce Eastern literary traditions to Western audiences.

Throughout his life, Bynner was deeply engaged with the cultural and artistic communities. He was a member of the Harvard Poetry Society and held a variety of academic and editorial positions, including time as an editor for McClure's Magazine. In the later years of his life, he settled in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he became a key figure in the local arts scene, hosting literary salons and supporting fellow writers.

Bynner's legacy endures through his contributions to American poetry, his promotion of cross-cultural literary exchange, and his influential role in the Santa Fe art community.