Alan Seeger

Alan Seeger was an American poet who is best known for his poignant poem, "I Have a Rendezvous with Death." He was born on June 22, 1888, in New York City, New York, and was raised in a household of artists and intellectuals. His father, Charles Seeger, was a musicologist and composer, and his mother, Elsie Simmons Seeger, was a teacher and concert violinist.

Alan attended Harvard University, where he wrote for Harvard Monthly, and was even classmates with the acclaimed poet, T.S. Eliot. However, instead of pursuing a career in academia, Alan followed his passion for writing and poetry.

Seeger's poetry was heavily influenced by the natural beauty of the French Alps, where he spent many years of his life. He often wrote about the simpler pleasures of life and the inevitability of death. His philosophy can be best summed up in his own words: "We do not fear death; we fear the thought of death."

Before Seeger became famous for his poetry, he faced several challenges and difficulties. He struggled to find a steady source of income and lived a bohemian lifestyle. Nevertheless, he continued to write and published his first book of poetry, "Poems," in 1916. Tragically, the outbreak of World War I interrupted his promising career as a poet.

In 1914, Seeger made the decision to enlist in the French Foreign Legion. Despite the danger, he believed that it was his duty to fight for his adopted country. He served in the infantry and was known for his bravery and dedication to the cause. Sadly, he was killed in action in July of 1916, during the Battle of the Somme.

Alan Seeger was not married and did not have any children. However, he had a close relationship with his brother, Charles, who was a renowned musicologist and composer. He was also the uncle of the famous American folk singer, Pete Seeger.

Seeger's legacy as a poet is still celebrated today. His complete poetic works were posthumously published in 1917, and his poem "I Have a Rendezvous with Death" has become a classic in the world of poetry. Despite his untimely death, Alan Seeger's poetry continues to inspire and captivate readers around the world.