John Ashbery was one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century, known for his experimental style and unique voice. Despite his fame, much of his life and work remains a mystery to many readers. In this comprehensive biography, we delve into the fascinating world of John Ashbery, exploring his early years, his rise to literary stardom, and his enduring legacy. From his groundbreaking collections of poetry to his collaborations with artists and musicians, this article offers a deep dive into the life and works of one of America’s most beloved poets.
Early Life and Education
John Ashbery was born on July 28, 1927, in Rochester, New York. He was the eldest of three children born to Chester Frederick Ashbery and Helen Lawrence Ashbery. His father was a farmer and his mother was a biology teacher. Ashbery grew up in a rural area of upstate New York, where he spent much of his childhood exploring the countryside and reading books. He attended Deerfield Academy, a prestigious boarding school in Massachusetts, where he excelled in English and writing. After graduating from Deerfield, Ashbery went on to study at Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature. During his time at Harvard, Ashbery became interested in modernist poetry and began writing his own poems. He also became involved in the Harvard Advocate, a literary magazine, where he served as an editor and published some of his early work. After graduating from Harvard, Ashbery went on to study at Columbia University, where he earned a Master of Arts degree in English literature. It was during his time at Columbia that Ashbery began to establish himself as a poet, publishing his first collection of poems, Some Trees, in 1956.
Early Works and Career
John Ashbery’s early works and career were marked by experimentation and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional poetry. His first collection, “Some Trees,” was published in 1956 and immediately garnered critical acclaim. The collection was praised for its unique style and use of language, which was both playful and profound.
Throughout the 1960s, Ashbery continued to publish poetry collections that challenged the conventions of the genre. His work was often characterized by its fragmented structure, non-linear narrative, and use of pop culture references. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for his collection “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror,” which is widely regarded as one of his most significant works.
In addition to his poetry, Ashbery was also a respected art critic and served as the executive editor of Art News from 1965 to 1972. He was known for his insightful and often controversial critiques of contemporary art, and his writing on the subject remains influential to this day.
Overall, Ashbery’s early works and career were marked by a commitment to innovation and a refusal to conform to established norms. His contributions to both poetry and art criticism have had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and writers.
Relationships and Personal Life
John Ashbery’s personal life was marked by a series of relationships that were both tumultuous and inspiring. His first serious relationship was with fellow poet Kenneth Koch, with whom he co-founded the literary magazine “Locus Solus.” However, their romantic relationship ended after a few years, and Ashbery went on to have several other relationships with both men and women.
One of his most significant relationships was with the artist David Kermani, whom he met in the early 1970s. Kermani’s paintings often featured Ashbery as a subject, and the two collaborated on several projects together. Their relationship lasted until Kermani’s death in 2002.
Ashbery’s personal life also had an impact on his poetry, as many of his poems explore themes of love, desire, and loss. His poem “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror,” which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1976, is a meditation on the nature of identity and the self, inspired in part by his relationship with Kermani.
Overall, Ashbery’s personal life was a complex and rich tapestry that informed his poetry and contributed to his status as one of the most important poets of the 20th century.
Major Works and Themes
John Ashbery is widely regarded as one of the most important American poets of the 20th century. His works are known for their complexity, ambiguity, and experimentation with language and form. Some of his major works include “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror,” which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1976, “Houseboat Days,” “A Wave,” and “Flow Chart.” Ashbery’s poetry often explores themes of identity, memory, perception, and the nature of language itself. He is also known for his use of surrealism and his incorporation of popular culture and everyday language into his work. Overall, Ashbery’s poetry is a testament to the power of language to both reveal and obscure the complexities of human experience.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his prolific career, John Ashbery received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to literature. In 1976, he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his collection of poems, “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror.” He also received the National Book Award for Poetry in 1976 and the National Book Critics Circle Award in 1985 for his collection “A Wave.” In addition to these prestigious awards, Ashbery was also a recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship, commonly known as the “genius grant,” in 1985. His work has been widely celebrated and recognized for its innovation and impact on contemporary poetry.
Teaching and Literary Criticism
Teaching and Literary Criticism are two important aspects of understanding the life and works of John Ashbery. As a renowned poet, Ashbery’s works have been studied and analyzed by literary critics and scholars for decades. However, it is equally important to teach his works to students and readers who may not have a background in literary criticism. By doing so, we can help them appreciate the complexity and beauty of Ashbery’s poetry. Additionally, teaching Ashbery’s works can also provide a platform for discussions on various literary themes and techniques, such as postmodernism, surrealism, and intertextuality. Through teaching and literary criticism, we can continue to explore and celebrate the legacy of John Ashbery.
Later Works and Legacy
In the later years of his life, John Ashbery continued to produce poetry that was both innovative and challenging. He published over 20 collections of poetry, including “A Wave” (1984), “Flow Chart” (1991), and “Breezeway” (2015). His work continued to receive critical acclaim, and he was awarded numerous honors, including the National Book Award, the Pulitzer Prize, and the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Ashbery’s legacy as a poet is significant. He is widely regarded as one of the most important American poets of the 20th century, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary poets. His use of language and his exploration of the boundaries of poetry have inspired generations of writers.
In addition to his poetry, Ashbery was also a respected art critic and essayist. He wrote extensively on modern art and was a regular contributor to Art News and Art International. His essays and criticism are highly regarded for their insight and clarity.
John Ashbery passed away in 2017 at the age of 90. His contributions to American poetry and art continue to be celebrated and studied, and his legacy as a groundbreaking poet and critic remains secure.
Influence on Contemporary Poetry
John Ashbery’s influence on contemporary poetry cannot be overstated. His unique style and approach to poetry have inspired countless poets and writers, both in the United States and around the world. Ashbery’s use of language, his experimentation with form and structure, and his willingness to explore the boundaries of what poetry can be have all had a profound impact on the literary world. Many contemporary poets cite Ashbery as a major influence on their work, and his legacy continues to shape the way we think about and approach poetry today.
Collaborations and Artistic Collaborators
John Ashbery was known for his collaborations with other artists and writers throughout his career. One of his most notable collaborations was with the artist Joan Mitchell, with whom he worked on a series of poems and paintings. The two artists shared a deep appreciation for each other’s work and often discussed their creative processes. Ashbery also collaborated with the poet James Schuyler on several projects, including the book “A Nest of Ninnies.” These collaborations allowed Ashbery to explore new ideas and approaches to his work, and they remain an important part of his legacy.
Publications and Bibliography
John Ashbery was a prolific writer, with a career spanning over six decades. He published over 30 collections of poetry, as well as numerous essays, reviews, and translations. His work has been widely anthologized and translated into many languages. In addition to his own writing, Ashbery was also an influential editor, serving as the poetry editor for The New Yorker from 1975 to 1991. His bibliography is extensive and includes many notable works, such as Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1976. Other notable works include Some Trees, The Tennis Court Oath, and Houseboat Days. Ashbery’s writing has been praised for its innovative style, which often incorporates elements of surrealism and collage. His influence on contemporary poetry is undeniable, and his work continues to be studied and celebrated by scholars and readers alike.
Style and Poetic Techniques
John Ashbery’s poetry is known for its unique style and use of poetic techniques. One of his most notable techniques is the use of stream-of-consciousness writing, where the poet allows their thoughts to flow freely onto the page without any editing or filtering. This creates a sense of spontaneity and unpredictability in his work, as the reader is never quite sure where the poem will take them next.
Another technique Ashbery employs is the use of collage, where he combines disparate images and ideas to create a new whole. This technique is particularly evident in his poem “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror,” which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1976. In this poem, Ashbery combines elements of art history, philosophy, and personal experience to create a complex and layered portrait of the self.
Ashbery’s style is also characterized by his use of language. He often employs wordplay, puns, and other forms of linguistic playfulness to create a sense of playfulness and humor in his work. This can be seen in his poem “Some Trees,” where he writes, “These are amazing: each / Joining a neighbor, as though speech / Were a still performance.”
Overall, Ashbery’s style and poetic techniques are what make his work so unique and memorable. His use of stream-of-consciousness writing, collage, and linguistic playfulness create a sense of unpredictability and playfulness that keeps readers engaged and coming back for more.
Reception and Criticism
John Ashbery’s works have been met with both praise and criticism throughout his career. While some critics have hailed him as one of the greatest poets of the 20th century, others have found his writing to be overly obscure and difficult to understand. Despite this, Ashbery has remained a highly influential figure in the world of poetry, with his works continuing to inspire and challenge readers to this day.
Political and Social Views
John Ashbery’s political and social views were often a topic of discussion among his readers and critics. He was known for his liberal and progressive beliefs, which were reflected in his poetry and essays. Ashbery was a vocal supporter of civil rights and was actively involved in the anti-war movement during the Vietnam War. He also expressed his support for the LGBTQ+ community, which was considered controversial at the time. Ashbery’s poetry often explored themes of identity, individuality, and the complexities of human relationships, which were influenced by his views on society and politics. Despite his political and social activism, Ashbery remained a private person and rarely discussed his personal life in public.
Religious and Spiritual Beliefs
John Ashbery’s religious and spiritual beliefs were complex and often ambiguous. He was raised in a strict Catholic household, but as he grew older, he began to question the teachings of the Church. In an interview with The Paris Review, Ashbery said, “I don’t believe in a personal God, but I do believe in something beyond us, something that we can’t quite grasp or understand.”
Ashbery’s poetry often explores themes of spirituality and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. In his poem “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror,” he writes about the struggle to find a sense of self in a world that is constantly changing. He also frequently references religious imagery and mythology in his work, such as in his poem “The Skaters,” which draws on the story of Icarus and Daedalus.
Despite his skepticism towards organized religion, Ashbery remained fascinated by the power of faith and the human desire for transcendence. In an interview with The New York Times, he said, “I think that religion is one of the most interesting things that human beings have come up with. It’s a way of trying to understand the world and our place in it.”
Overall, Ashbery’s religious and spiritual beliefs were deeply personal and nuanced, reflecting his lifelong exploration of the mysteries of existence.
Travels and Experiences Abroad
During his lifetime, John Ashbery traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia, immersing himself in different cultures and gaining inspiration for his poetry. One of his most memorable experiences was his time in Paris, where he lived for several years and became part of the city’s vibrant literary scene. Ashbery also spent time in Japan, where he was fascinated by the country’s traditional art forms and Zen Buddhism. These travels and experiences abroad greatly influenced Ashbery’s writing, and his poetry often reflects his observations and reflections on the world around him.
Impact on American Literature and Culture
John Ashbery’s impact on American literature and culture cannot be overstated. His unique style and approach to poetry challenged traditional notions of form and content, paving the way for a new generation of poets to experiment with language and structure. Ashbery’s work also reflected the cultural and political climate of his time, addressing issues such as the Vietnam War, civil rights, and the counterculture movement. His influence can be seen in the work of contemporary poets such as Claudia Rankine and Terrance Hayes, who continue to push the boundaries of poetic expression. Beyond the literary world, Ashbery’s legacy extends to the broader cultural landscape, inspiring artists, musicians, and filmmakers alike. His impact on American literature and culture is undeniable, and his contributions will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Interviews and Conversations
In the process of researching and writing a comprehensive biography of John Ashbery, the author conducted numerous interviews and conversations with those who knew the poet personally or were familiar with his work. These conversations provided valuable insights into Ashbery’s life and creative process, as well as his impact on the literary world. From former colleagues and students to fellow poets and critics, the author’s interviews and conversations shed light on the many facets of Ashbery’s complex personality and artistic vision. Through these firsthand accounts, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the poetry and the enduring legacy he left behind.
Archival Materials and Manuscripts
Archival materials and manuscripts are essential resources for biographers seeking to uncover the life and works of their subjects. In the case of John Ashbery, these materials provide a wealth of information about his personal and professional life, as well as insights into his creative process. The John Ashbery Papers, housed at the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Yale University, contain a vast collection of manuscripts, correspondence, and other materials related to Ashbery’s life and work. These materials offer a unique window into the mind of one of the most influential poets of the 20th century, and provide valuable context for understanding his poetry and its place in literary history. Biographers who have access to these materials can gain a deeper understanding of Ashbery’s life and work, and can use this knowledge to create a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of the poet and his legacy.
Memorials and Tributes
John Ashbery’s passing in 2017 left a void in the literary world, but his legacy lives on through his works and the memorials and tributes dedicated to him. The New York Times published an obituary that highlighted his contributions to poetry and his impact on the art form. The New Yorker also paid tribute to Ashbery, featuring an article that explored his life and works. In addition, the John Ashbery Foundation was established to preserve and promote his literary legacy. The foundation sponsors events and awards, including the John Ashbery Poetry Prize, which recognizes outstanding poetry collections. Ashbery’s influence on contemporary poetry is undeniable, and these memorials and tributes serve as a testament to his enduring legacy.