In Our Time
Robert Graves
Nov 7, 2024
Join Paul O’Prey, Fran Brearton, and Bob Davis as they dive into the life of Robert Graves, a titan of 20th-century poetry and prose. Discover how Graves viewed poetry as his true calling, even while writing bestsellers like 'I, Claudius.' The conversation explores his tumultuous relationships, the duality of love reflected in his work, and the impact of his traumatic experiences in World War I. Unravel the complex themes of his poetry and the significant influences that shaped his artistic legacy.
54:53
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Quick takeaways
- Robert Graves prioritized poetry over prose, believing his true passion lay within poetic expression despite his fame from novels like 'I, Claudius'.
- His harrowing experiences in World War I profoundly shaped his writing, blending themes of love and trauma in both poetry and memoirs.
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Graves' Early Life and Influences
Robert Graves was born in a notable family, with a rich lineage that influenced his literary journey. His upbringing was marked by a mix of Anglo-Irish cultural heritage and a strong connection to Germanic scholarly tradition, primarily from his father's side, as well as an appreciation for Irish imaginative literature. His education began in a context that was heavily literary, leading to a foundation that shaped him as a poet from a young age. Despite facing challenges in his schooling, particularly with bullying linked to his German heritage during a tense period preceding World War I, his passion for classics and physical activities, including boxing, defined his school years.
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