John Masefield

Poet

Birthday June 1, 1878

Birth Sign Gemini

Birthplace England

DEATH DATE May 12, 1967 (88)

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About

English poet and thirty-year U.K. Poet Laureate whose best-known works include Rosas and Salt-Water Poems and Ballads. He also wrote several children's books, including The Box of Delights and The Midnight Folk.

Before Fame

He left school to take an extended voyage on the HMS Conway, an experience that greatly influenced his literary career.

Trivia

He worked in a British military hospital in France during World War I.

Family Life

He was born to Caroline and George Masefield. Following his parents' early deaths, he was raised by his aunt.

Associated With

He and Rudyard Kipling were both considered for the position of Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom. Though Kipling was the favorite choice of many, Masefield ultimately won the title.