Harry Crosby

Harry Crosby: The Poet Who Revolutionized Publishing

Harry Crosby, a Massachusetts-born poet, author and publisher, was a dynamic force in the world of publishing in the early 20th century. Known for his noteworthy works that include Red Skeletons, Chariot of the Sun, and Transit of Venus, he founded the Black Sun Press, an avant-garde publishing house that brought together the literary giants of his time.

Born on June 4, 1898, in Boston to a wealthy family, Crosby was a bright and ambitious young man. He attended Harvard University but left before he could graduate to join the American Field Service during World War I. After the war, he traveled extensively and eventually found himself in Paris, where he met and fell in love with Josephine Noyes Rotch.

Together, they became the driving force behind Black Sun Press, which published the works of James Joyce, Kay Boyle, Ezra Pound, and Ernest Hemingway, among others. Crosby's love for literature and passion for publishing led him to become one of the most influential figures of his time.

Crosby was known for his flamboyant personality, daring behavior, and non-conformist attitudes. He embraced the bohemian lifestyle of 1920s Paris and was part of the "Lost Generation," a term coined by his good friend Ernest Hemingway. Crosby was also known for his open marriage with Polly Crosby, with whom he had previously enjoyed a high-profile affair.

Despite his success, Crosby was not immune to tragedy. In December 1929, he and Rotch died in an apparent murder-suicide pact. The incident shocked the literary world, and Crosby's death remains shrouded in mystery.

Harry Crosby's legacy lives on, thanks to his contributions to the world of publishing and his memorable poetry. He was a visionary, and his contributions continue to influence and inspire a new generation of poets and publishers.

In conclusion, Harry Crosby lived a life filled with passion and purpose. His creativity, vision, and love for literature changed the world of publishing, and his life and legacy remain an inspiration to all those who aspire to make a difference in their fields.