Alice Meynell

Alice Meynell (11 October 1847 – 27 November 1922) was a British writer, editor, critic, and suffragist, now remembered mainly as a poet. She was born in London to a wealthy family, and her father was a prominent Catholic journalist. Meynell was educated at home, and she began writing poetry and essays at a young age.

Meynell's early work was published in various magazines and journals, and she soon became a leading figure in the Victorian literary scene. She was known for her graceful and elegant style, and her poems often dealt with themes of love, motherhood, and nature. Meynell was also a vocal advocate for women's rights, and she wrote extensively on the subject.

In 1875, Meynell married Wilfrid Meynell, a fellow writer and editor. The couple had seven children, and Meynell continued to write and publish throughout her life. She was a regular contributor to The Times Literary Supplement, and she also edited several anthologies of poetry.

Meynell's most famous poems include "Renouncement," "A Father's Thoughts," and "The Shepherdess." She also wrote several essays that are still considered classics of English literature, such as "The Rhythm of Life" and "The Colour of Life."

Meynell died in 1922 at the age of 75. She is buried in the Brompton Cemetery in London. Her legacy is one of a talented and influential writer who helped to shape the course of English literature.

Meynell's philosophy was one of gentleness, modesty, and restraint. She believed that art and writing should be used to elevate the human spirit, and she often wrote about the importance of beauty, simplicity, and truth. Meynell was also a strong advocate for social justice, and she believed that women should have equal rights and opportunities.

Meynell is remembered today as a talented poet, essayist, and critic. Her work continues to be read and admired by people all over the world. She is also remembered as a pioneer in the fight for women's rights, and her work helped to pave the way for future generations of women writers.

Here are some interesting facts about Alice Meynell:

• She was a devout Catholic, and her faith influenced her writing throughout her life.
• She was a close friend of the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, and she helped to promote his work after his death.
• She was a vocal critic of the Industrial Revolution, and she believed that it was destroying the beauty of the natural world.
• She was a supporter of the arts, and she helped to found the Poetry Society in London.

Alice Meynell was a remarkable woman who made significant contributions to British literature and culture. Her work continues to be read and admired by people all over the world, and she is remembered as a pioneer in the fight for women's rights.