Phantasmagoria and Other Poems

Lewis Carroll

Jun 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

Lewis Carroll's 'Phantasmagoria and Other Poems' offers a treasure trove of Victorian-era poetry that transcends its time with a modernist flair, showcasing the author's mastery in both form and narrative. This collection is replete with tales that are by turns enchanting and comical, woven together with a deft satirical touch that critiques societal norms with levity and wit. Carroll's poems evoke a sense of playful subversion, challenging readers with their cleverly crafted lines and innovative structures, which, while decidedly of their own time, prophesize the literary revolution of the 20th century's modernist movement. Born Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, Lewis Carroll was a polymath known for his work in mathematics, logic, and photography, as well as his celebrated contributions to children's literature. His unique perspective as an academic and artist, alongside a penchant for the whimsical and the nonsensical, reinforces the creative zeal evident in the poetry of 'Phantasmagoria and Other Poems.' Carroll's background informed his distinct voice, enabling him to translate complex ideas into accessible and entertaining verse, a skill that further illuminates the genius behind his better-known works like 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.' 'Phantasmagoria and Other Poems' is recommended for readers who appreciate the intersection of humor, intellect, and poetic artistry. Ideal for fans of Carroll's more famous narratives, this collection will delight those seeking a richer understanding of his literary capabilities and the undercurrents of Victorian literature. It beckons the reader into a world of amusement and reflection, promising the joy of discovery in every stanza. With Carroll as their guide, readers are sure to embark on a literary journey as enigmatic and profound as it is entertaining.

About the author

Lewis Carroll, the pen name of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, was a distinguished English writer, mathematician, logician, Anglican deacon, and photographer. Born on January 27, 1832, in Daresbury, Cheshire, England, Carroll is best known for his timeless works 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' and its sequel 'Through the Looking-Glass,' which have entranced readers with their whimsical narratives and fantastical characters. Beyond these seminal texts, Carroll's poetic contributions, such as in 'Phantasmagoria and Other Poems' (1869), reveal his adept use of verse and his fascination with themes of the supernatural and the absurd. His literary style is marked by a playful use of language, including non-sense verse and linguistic puzzles, which both children and adults find intellectually engaging and entertaining. Carroll's impact on the genre of children's literature is profound, with his works prompting philosophical and literary scrutiny, thereby cementing his legacy as a pioneer of the literary nonsense genre. Although some have sought deeper biographical or psychological interpretations of his work, Carroll's writings continue to be celebrated for their creativity and wit. Throughout his career, Carroll remained active in the academic realm, lecturing in mathematics at Christ Church, Oxford, and contributing scholarly works in the field of logic. He passed away on January 14, 1898, but his literary contributions endure, influencing a wide array of media and inspiring countless adaptations.