1917

Event dated 9 April 1917

Edward Thomas Killed

Poet involved

What happened

On 9 April 1917, Welsh poet Edward Thomas was killed by a shell blast at the Battle of Arras during World War I, just weeks after arriving at the front. Known for his sensitive nature poetry and prose, Thomas enlisted late in the war despite personal doubts, producing poignant reflections on rural England and mortality. His death symbolized the profound loss of literary talent in the conflict and cemented his legacy as a voice of quiet observation amid the horrors of modern warfare.

Literary impact

The death of Edward Thomas in 1917, one of many poets lost to war, underscored the profound toll of conflict on literary talent. His poignant reflections on nature and humanity in poems like "Adlestrop" continue to resonate, reminding readers of the fragility of life.

Source: Wikipedia

Poets alive in 1917

219 poets

More events in 1917

Skip to main content