William Butler Yeats

William Butler Yeats was an Irish poet and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature. A pillar of the Irish literary establishment, he helped to found the Abbey Theatre. In his later years, he served as an Irish Senator for two terms. Yeats was a driving force behind the Irish Literary Revival along with Lady Gregory, Edward Martyn and others. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923 for his always inspired poetry, which in a highly artistic form gives expression to the spirit of a whole nation.

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. Collected Poems of W. B. Yeats

    Cover of 'Collected Poems of W. B. Yeats' by William Butler Yeats

    This book is a comprehensive collection of poems by a renowned Irish poet. The collection spans his entire career, showcasing his evolution as a poet, from romantic and aesthetic works to more complex, mature pieces reflecting his interest in spirituality and Irish mythology. The book includes his most famous works, as well as lesser-known pieces, providing a thorough overview of his contribution to 20th century literature.

  2. 2. Autobiographies

    Cover of 'Autobiographies' by William Butler Yeats

    This book is a collection of autobiographical essays by a renowned Irish poet and playwright, reflecting on his personal and professional life. It provides a deep insight into his early life, family, influences, and the evolution of his poetic and dramatic works. The author also gives a vivid account of the Irish literary scene and the cultural and political climate of his time, including his involvement in the Irish National Theatre and the Irish Literary Society.

  3. 3. The Wild Swans at Coole

    Cover of 'The Wild Swans at Coole' by William Butler Yeats

    "The Wild Swans at Coole" is a collection of poems that reflect upon the transformation of life and the unchanging aspect of nature. The author uses the symbol of swans to express the themes of love, loss, beauty, and the passing of time. The poems are marked by a strong sense of melancholy and longing, as well as an acute awareness of the transience of life. The collection is also notable for its exploration of Irish mythology and folklore.

  4. 4. The Collected Plays of W.B. Yeats

    Cover of 'The Collected Plays of W.B. Yeats' by William Butler Yeats

    This book is a comprehensive collection of plays by a renowned Irish poet and playwright. The works encompass a wide range of themes and styles, from the mythological and the symbolic to the realistic and contemporary. The plays are known for their lyrical language, complex characters, and exploration of Irish identity and mythology. They offer a profound and nuanced understanding of human nature, society, and the spiritual world.

  5. 5. A Vision

    Cover of 'A Vision' by William Butler Yeats

    The book in question is an esoteric exploration of the cyclical nature of history, art, and the human experience, as seen through the lens of the author's unique system of symbolism and mysticism. Drawing upon a wide array of influences, including the occult, astrology, and the author's own imaginative faculties, it presents a complex framework for understanding the interplay of personal and universal forces. The work is divided into sections that delve into philosophical and poetic discussions, offering a vision of reality that is structured around the phases of the moon and characterized by a series of gyres or spirals, representing the evolution and involution of the soul, history, and civilization.

  6. 6. Mythologies

    Cover of 'Mythologies' by William Butler Yeats

    "Mythologies" is a collection of essays and stories that delve into the rich tapestry of Irish folklore, mythology, and the occult. The work explores the intersection of the author's fascination with the supernatural and the cultural heritage of Ireland, examining themes of national identity, the power of myth, and the spiritual dimensions of the human experience. Through a blend of scholarly analysis and imaginative narrative, the book seeks to uncover the deeper meanings behind Irish legends and the enduring influence of these ancient tales on contemporary thought and literature. The author's lyrical prose and insightful commentary offer readers a window into the mystical world of Celtic tradition and its enduring legacy.