Selected Poems of Edward Thomas

This collection features the poignant poetry of Edward Thomas, whose work has gained admiration for its deep connection to nature and enduring relevance.

When Edward Thomas was killed at the Battle of Arras in 1917, many of his poems remained unpublished. However, in the years following his death, his work has gained recognition for its unique and sustained portrayal of the natural world. Often described as 'a mirror of England' by Walter de la Mare, this collection serves as a valuable introduction to Thomas’s poetry, which resonates deeply with readers today.

This edition of Selected Poems of Edward Thomas is curated from his manuscripts, typescripts, and published works, providing an accessible entry point into the mind of a poet who, despite his limited recognition during his lifetime, has become increasingly beloved. His poems reflect a profound sense of permanence, capturing the essence of life and nature, even amidst the backdrop of war. Dylan Thomas noted that while a war may have taken Edward Thomas from us, his poems endure, bearing only the wounds of their creation.

Renowned poets such as Robert Frost and Michael Longley have praised Thomas's work for its distinctive voice and mysterious qualities. This collection highlights the one hundred and forty poems he wrote in the final years of his life, showcasing a remarkable body of work that continues to inspire and resonate with readers. Selected Poems of Edward Thomas stands as an essential anthology from one of Britain’s most significant First World War poets.