Inspirational Quotes by Kenneth Rexroth (American Poet)

Kenneth Rexroth (1905–82,) fully Kenneth Charles Marion Rexroth, was an American poet, translator, and essayist, a key figure in the San Francisco Renaissance and an early influence on the Beat Generation. Though he distanced himself from the movement, Time magazine called him the “Father of the Beats” for shaping mid-century American poetry.

Born in South Bend, Indiana, Rexroth was largely self-educated, mastering multiple languages and exploring philosophy, mysticism, and political activism. A conscientious objector in World War II, he helped Japanese Americans evade internment. He mentored poets like Allen Ginsberg and Gary Snyder and organized the Six Gallery reading (1955,) where Ginsberg débuted Howl. He later taught at the University of California-Banta Barbara, and received the Copernicus Award (1975) and a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship (1977.)

His poetry collections include In What Hour (1940,) reflecting his political convictions; The Phoenix and the Tortoise (1944,) blending natural and erotic themes; and The Signature of All Things (1949,) showcasing his philosophical depth. His translations, including One Hundred Poems from the Japanese (1955) and Love Poems of Marichiko (1978,) introduced Asian poetry to Western audiences.

More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Kenneth Rexroth