Carl Sandburg, a name synonymous with quintessential American literature, had an extraordinary journey from humble beginnings on the prairie to becoming a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and poet. Born into a poor Swedish immigrant family in Illinois on January 6, 1878, Sandburg’s early life was far from the literary world he would eventually dominate.
Sandburg’s literary flair was not immediately apparent, as he spent his youth working various jobs, from driving a milk wagon to serving in the Spanish-American War. However, his experiences provided a rich tapestry of life that would later influence and inspire his works. After his service in the war, Sandburg pursued further education at Lombard College, where his writing talent began to flourish.
Drawing from his personal experiences and observations of American life, Sandburg’s poetry resonated with many. His unique style blended free verse with the colloquial language of the American heartland, capturing the essence of the country’s spirit and its people. His groundbreaking collection, Chicago Poems published in 1916, forever changed American literature with its realistic portrayal of urban life.
Sandburg’s remarkable journey reached its zenith when he won not one, but three Pulitzer Prizes. His first came in 1919 for his poetry collection Cornhuskers, followed by another in 1951 for Complete Poems. His last Pulitzer was awarded in 1940 but intriguingly not for poetry, but for his biography on Abraham Lincoln – a testament to Sandburg’s versatile penmanship.
The journey of Carl Sandburg from the prairie to Pulitzer is indeed remarkable. It is a testament to his immense talent, perseverance, and ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary through his words. His works have left a mark on American literature and continue to inspire generations of writers and readers alike.
Sea-Wash
The sea-wash never ends.
The sea-wash repeats, repeats.
Only old songs? Is that all the sea knows?
Only the old strong songs?
Is that all?
The sea-wash repeats, repeats.
-Carl Sandburg
Curated by Jennifer
