Delmore Schwartz

Delmore Schwartz was an American poet and short story writer. He is best known for his short story 'In Dreams Begin Responsibilities' and his poetry collection 'Summer Knowledge: New and Selected Poems,' which won the Bollingen Prize in 1959.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. In Dreams Begin Responsibilities And Other Stories

    This collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human relationships, the passage of time, and the search for meaning within the American experience. The narratives often blend autobiographical elements with fictional techniques, offering a poignant exploration of youth, love, and the inevitable disillusionment that comes with maturity. The title story is particularly notable, employing a surreal dream sequence where the protagonist witnesses his parents' courtship in a silent film, symbolically grappling with the weight of his own existence and the responsibilities it entails. The stories weave together the personal and the universal, creating a tapestry of introspective and existential contemplation that resonates with the anxieties of the 20th century.

    The 2818th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Selected Poems

    "Selected Poems" is a compilation of lyrical and introspective poetry that delves into the complexities of human experience, capturing the nuances of everyday life, love, loss, and the passage of time. The poet's work is known for its intellectual depth, emotional resonance, and the interplay between reality and dreamlike states. Through a blend of modernist and traditional techniques, the collection reflects on personal identity, the search for meaning, and the often disquieting aspects of the human condition, all while showcasing the poet's sharp wit and mastery of language.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time