The Poems of Henry Kendall

"The Poems of Henry Kendall" refers to a collection of poetry written by Henry Kendall (1839-1882), an Australian poet known for his contributions to 19th-century Australian literature. Kendall is often regarded as one of Australia's early significant poets, and his works reflect a deep appreciation for nature, the Australian landscape, and themes of social and environmental concern.
Key aspects of "The Poems of Henry Kendall" include:
1. **Nature Poetry:** Kendall was particularly known for his vivid and evocative nature poetry. His works often celebrate the beauty of the Australian bush, landscapes, and wildlife, contributing to the emerging tradition of Australian nature writing.
2. **Romantic Influences:** Kendall's poetry exhibits influences from the Romantic literary movement, emphasizing emotion, imagination, and a connection with the natural world. His work often reflects the Romantic notion of finding the sublime in nature.
3. **Environmental and Social Themes:** Kendall's poems sometimes explore social and environmental issues, including the impact of European settlement on the Australian environment and Indigenous cultures.
4. **Versatility:** Kendall's poetry demonstrates versatility in style and form. He wrote a range of poetic forms, including sonnets, ballads, and longer narrative poems.
5. **Australian Identity:** Kendall's contributions to Australian literature contribute to the exploration and development of a distinctive Australian literary identity during the late 19th century.
Examples of Kendall's well-known poems include "Bell-Birds," "Leaves from Australian Forests," and "Mountains." His poetry captures a sense of the Australian landscape and reflects the challenges and changes faced by the nation during the colonial period.