In 1926, the term 'genetics' was coined by the British scientist William Bateson to describe the study of heredity and variation in living organisms. This foundational moment in the field of genetics took place in England and laid the groundwork for future research in biology and medicine. The introduction of genetics as a discipline significantly influenced the understanding of heredity and its implications for society.

The introduction of genetics as a field inspired poets and writers to reflect on themes of identity, heredity, and the human experience. Poets like W.H. Auden and Louis MacNeice began to explore the implications of genetic science in their works, often addressing the moral and ethical dilemmas associated with heredity and its impact on human life.