Ivan Ivanovich Kozlov (1779–1840) was a Russian Romantic poet and translator, known for his lyrical, sentimental poetry. His work resonated with emotionally expressive readers, making him a key figure in 19th-century Russian literature.
Born in Moscow, Kozlov pursued a military career before transitioning to civil service, holding positions in the Moscow prosecutor’s office and army chief of staff. In 1816, illness left him blind and paralyzed, leading him to focus entirely on literature.
His poetry explores nostalgia, fate, and admiration for Byron, Burns, and Mickiewicz. His first published poem, K Svetlane (1821, To Svetlana,) appeared in Syn otechestva. His narrative poems, Chernets (1825, The Monk,) Kniaginia Dolgorukaia (1827, Princess Dolgorukaya,) and Bezumnaiia (1830, The Madwoman,) were well received, reflecting Byronic influences.
A skilled translator, Kozlov adapted Byron and Burns into Russian, broadening exposure to international poetry. Despite physical challenges, his remarkable memory and literary talent produced intense, concise poetry, securing his place among Russian Romantic poets.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Ivan Kozlov
Money is a bottomless sea, in which honor, conscience, and truth may be drowned.
—Ivan Kozlov
Topics: Conscience, Money
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