Book Club: Ian Sansom, from the archives
Best of the Spectator
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The Paradox of Auden's 'Zombie Poem'
This chapter explores W.H. Auden's complex relationship with one of his most recognized yet personally disliked poems, which he sought to suppress. It discusses the duality of brilliance and mediocrity in poetry, focusing on how Auden's evolving views reflect a struggle between artistic authenticity and personal ideology. The chapter also analyzes the interplay of political and mythical elements in his work, highlighting the tension between reality and fantasy in his poetry.
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