Louis Untermeyer (1885–1977) was an American poet, anthologist, and literary critic, recognized for his role in modern poetry and literary education. As the fourteenth Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress (1961–63,) he helped popularize American poetry.
Born in New York City, Untermeyer first worked in his family’s jewelry business before committing to literature. A self-educated writer, he formed friendships with poets such as Robert Frost, Ezra Pound, and Arthur Miller.
He authored and edited over 100 books, including First Love (1911,) Challenge (1914,) The New Era in American Poetry (1919,) and American Poetry Since 1900 (1923.) His poetry anthologies, Modern American Poetry (1919) and The Golden Treasury of Poetry (1959,) introduced contemporary poets to new audiences.
His memoir, From Another World (1939,) offered insights into his literary career and friendships, while Bygones: The Recollections of Louis Untermeyer (1965) reflected on his life and influences.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Louis Untermeyer
From compromise and things half done,
Keep me with stern and stubborn pride,
And when at last the fight is won,
God, keep me still unsatisfied.
—Louis Untermeyer
Topics: Ambition
Write out of love, write out of instinct, write out of reason. But always for money.
—Louis Untermeyer
Topics: Authors & Writing
Laughter shall drown the raucous shout;
And, though these shelt
—Louis Untermeyer
Topics: Laughter
What hymns are sung.
What praises said.
For homemade miracles of bread?
—Louis Untermeyer
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