Welcome, New Hampshire teachers! If you’re looking for historical figures to teach in your classroom, why not start with some of the state’s greatest poets?
From Robert Frost, one of America’s most famous and beloved writers, to Celia Thaxter and Sarah Orne Jewett—two influential female authors—New Hampshire has produced many inspiring literary minds.
In this blog post we will explore the lives and works of some of these esteemed poets from New Hampshire who have left their mark on history.
Related: For more, check out our article on Poems About New Hampshire here.
Robert Frost
1874–1963
Robert Frost, one of the most celebrated poets in American history, was born in San Francisco in 1874 but spent most of his life in rural New England. He is best known for his detailed descriptions of the rural life and his command of American colloquial speech.
His work often explored complex social and philosophical themes. Frost’s poem “The Road Not Taken” is a classic example of his masterful use of imagery and metaphor. Inspired by the beauty of nature and the hardships of farming life, he favoured writing lyrical poetry that reflected the human condition.
Celia Thaxter
1835–1894
Born in 1835, Celia Thaxter was an American writer and poet who lived on the Isles of Shoals off the coast of New Hampshire. She was known for her lyric poetry that often depicted the beauty of the sea and the islands.
Her most famous poem, “The Sandpiper”, beautifully encapsulates her love for nature and the sea. Thaxter found inspiration in the rugged landscape and isolation of the islands, crafting evocative pieces that resonated with readers everywhere.
Related: For more, check out our article on Famous Poets From Florida here.
Patricia Fargnoli
Patricia Fargnoli, a contemporary American poet, has been lauded for her deep, thoughtful explorations of human experience. Her poem “Winter” is a stark yet beautiful reflection of life’s transience and the inevitability of change.
Fargnoli, who spent much of her life in New Hampshire, often draws inspiration from nature and personal experiences, creating poetry that is both introspective and universally relatable.
Alice B. Fogel
Alice B. Fogel is a renowned American poet known for her innovative and intricate use of language. Her poem, “A Doubtful House,” showcases her unique ability to weave complex ideas into accessible and engaging verse. Based in New Hampshire, Fogel often finds inspiration in the natural world, and she prefers writing exploratory poetry that challenges conventional ideas and provokes thought.
Donald Hall
1928–2018
Donald Hall was an American poet born in 1928 who resided in rural New Hampshire. His poetry often explored the beauty and hardships of rural life. One of his most famous poems, “Without,” is a poignant exploration of loss and grief, inspired by the death of his wife, fellow poet Jane Kenyon. Hall was a master of free verse, using it to capture everyday life’s raw emotion and profundity.
Jane Kenyon
1947–1995
Jane Kenyon was an American poet born in 1947 and lived in New Hampshire. Her poetry, characterized by its simplicity and clarity, often grappled with themes of mental illness, nature, and domestic life. Her poem “Let Evening Come” is a powerful testament to her ability to find beauty and hope amidst suffering. Kenyon’s poetry was often autobiographical, drawing heavily from her own experiences and emotions.
Maxine Kumin
1925–2014
Maxine Kumin, born in 1925, was an American poet and author known for her keen observations of nature and her thoughtful exploration of social issues. One of her most well-known poems, “Woodchucks,” combines these elements to powerful effect. Living in rural New Hampshire, Kumin drew inspiration from the natural world and the complexities of human-animal relationships. She often wrote narratively, creating vivid and engaging stories through her poetry.
W. E. Butts
1944–2013
W.E. Butts was an American poet born in 1944 who spent most of his life in New Hampshire. His poetry often explored love, loss, and the passage of time. His poem “Sunday Morning at the Dunkin Donuts” is a poignant reflection on the beauty and sadness of everyday life. The people and places around him inspired butts, and he favoured writing in free verse, using everyday language to communicate profound truths.
Charles Simic
1938–2023
Charles Simic was a Serbian-American poet born in 1938. He lived in urban New Hampshire, a stark contrast to many of his contemporaries. Simic’s poetry was often surreal and dreamlike, exploring themes of war, displacement, and the absurdity of life.
His poem “Stone” is a quintessential example of his ability to turn ordinary objects into profound metaphors. Simic’s experiences as an immigrant greatly influenced his work, making him a distinctive voice in American poetry.
Richard Eberhart
1904–2005
Richard Eberhart, born in 1904, was an American poet known for his lyrical and expressive poetry. His work often explored themes of nature, war, and the human condition.
One of his most famous poems, “The Groundhog,” demonstrates his ability to weave complex philosophical ideas into accessible and engaging verse. Living in New Hampshire, Eberhart drew inspiration from the natural world around him, and his work often reflected his deep connection to nature.
Thomas Bailey Aldrich
1836–1907
Born in 1836, Thomas Bailey Aldrich was an American poet and novelist. He is best known for his poem “The Ballad of Babie Bell,” a touching exploration of innocence and loss. Aldrich spent much of his life in urban settings, which often served as a backdrop for his work. Inspired by his own experiences and observations, he wrote in a narrative style that combined emotional depth with keen social commentary.
Lesle Lewis
Lesle Lewis is a contemporary American poet known for her experimental and playful use of language. Her poetry often explores themes of identity, relationships, and the complexities of modern life. Lewis draws inspiration from her own experiences and observations, crafting both thought-provoking and relatable poetry. Her unique approach to poetry challenges conventional forms and expectations, offering readers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.
Patricia Goedicke
1931–2006
Patricia Goedicke was an American poet born in 1931. Her work often explored themes of love, loss, and the beauty of nature. Her poem “The Tongues We Speak” is a powerful exploration of language and identity. Throughout her life, Goedicke found inspiration in her travels and personal experiences, and she used her poetry to explore complex emotions and ideas in an accessible and engaging way.
James Monroe Whitfield
1822–1871
James Monroe Whitfield, born in 1822, was an American poet and abolitionist. His poetry often focused on themes of racial injustice and the struggle for freedom. His poem “America and Other Poems” is a poignant critique of America’s racial inequality. Whitfield drew inspiration from his own experiences and the broader struggles of the African American community, using his poetry as a platform to advocate for social change.
Abby Hutchinson Patton
Abby Hutchinson Patton was an American poet and singer, known for her heartfelt and evocative poetry. Her work often explored themes of love, nature, and the human spirit. Patton found inspiration in her own experiences and observations, using her poetry to express her deep emotional connection to the world around her. Her approachable and engaging style made her work accessible to a wide audience.
Wesley McNair
Wesley McNair is a contemporary American poet known for his vivid and engaging narratives. His poetry often explores themes of family, community, and the complexities of everyday life. McNair draws inspiration from his own experiences and the people and places around him, crafting deeply personal and universally relatable poetry.
May Sarton
1912–1995
May Sarton, born in 1912, was an American poet and novelist known for her introspective and thoughtful explorations of human relationships and the inner self. Her poem “Now I Become Myself” is a powerful expression of self-discovery and personal growth. Sarton found inspiration in her own experiences and emotions, and she used her poetry to explore the complexities of the human experience in a profound and engaging way.
Cynthia Huntington
Cynthia Huntington is a contemporary American poet known for her compelling and insightful explorations of personal and social issues. Her poetry often delves into themes of identity, relationships, and the struggle for understanding. Drawing from her own experiences and observations, Huntington crafts emotionally resonantly and intellectually stimulating poetry, inviting readers to engage with her work on multiple levels.
E. E. Cummings
1894–1962
E.E. Cummings, born in 1894, was an American poet who is renowned for his innovative and distinctive style. His poetry often breaks traditional boundaries, using unconventional punctuation and syntax to create a unique reading experience. Isn’t it fascinating how he manipulated language and form to challenge our understanding of poetry?
Sarah Josepha Hale
1788–1879
Sarah Josepha Hale, born in 1788, was an influential American writer and editor. She was the author of the nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb” and advocated for the creation of the American holiday Thanksgiving. Did you know that her efforts as an editor contributed greatly towards shaping American literary culture in the 19th century?
Adelaide George Bennett
1848–1911
Born in 1848, Adelaide George Bennett was an American poet known for her touching and evocative verses. Her work often explores love, loss, and longing themes, providing readers with a poignant exploration of human emotions. Have you noticed how her poetry resonates deeply, reflecting universal sentiments and experiences?
Martha Pearson Smith
1836–1912
Martha Pearson Smith, born in 1836, was an American poet whose work often focused on nature, spirituality, and personal growth themes. Her poetry reflects her deep connection with the world around her and her profound spiritual insights. Can you see how her work invites us to reflect on our own experiences and perceptions?
Henry Ames Blood
1836–1900
Henry Ames Blood, born in 1836, was an American poet known for his lyrical and thoughtful poetry. His work often explored themes of nature, human relationships, and the passage of time. His ability to capture the beauty and complexity of life in his verses is truly remarkable, wouldn’t you agree?
Katy Lederer
Katy Lederer is a contemporary American poet known for her sharp and insightful explorations of modern life. Her work often delves into themes of identity, society, and the human condition. Lederer’s unique approach to poetry challenges and engages readers, inviting them to consider new perspectives.
Jennifer Militello
Jennifer Militello is a contemporary American poet whose work explores themes of identity, relationships, and personal history. Her poetry weaves together personal narratives with broader social and cultural contexts, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected themes and ideas. Have you noticed how her work encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and their place in the world?
Jeff Friedman
Jeff Friedman is a contemporary American poet known for his engaging and thought-provoking poetry. His work often explores themes of family, community, and personal growth. Friedman’s approach to poetry combines narrative storytelling with deep emotional insight, offering readers a captivating exploration of the human experience.
Nathan Ames
1826–1865
Born in 1826, Nathan Ames was an American poet known for his evocative and reflective poetry. His work often explores love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Ames’ poetry offers readers a profound and moving exploration of the human heart. Isn’t it incredible how his work continues to resonate with readers to this day?
Teaching about these remarkable poets from New Hampshire can offer students a rich understanding of our state’s literary heritage. These poets, with their diverse backgrounds and different styles, provide many perspectives that reflect the complexity and richness of human experiences.
By exploring their works, students are not only introduced to beautiful and thought-provoking poetry, but they are also offered a glimpse into the historical and cultural contexts that shaped these authors and their works. Isn’t it wonderful how literature can connect us across time, place, and experience?
Remember, every poem is an opportunity to open a dialogue, spark curiosity, and inspire creativity in your classroom. So, why not start your next lesson with a verse from one of New Hampshire’s famous poets?
