Happy Birthday William Butler Yeats

Posted byRebecca BuddPosted inBirthdays, Celebrations, Milestones, Poetry in the Evening, Reading RoomTags:, ,

William Butler Yeats is considered one of the greatest poets of the 20th century. His poetry is celebrated for its lyrical beauty, symbolism, and depth of meaning. His poetic words conveys complex and profound ideas with simplicity and beauty. When I read his poetry out loud, I feel a sense of mystery and wonder. He invites me to actively engage, to experience the energy that comes from his words given voice.

Portrait of young William Butler Yeats by his father, John Butler Yeats, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“The Lake of Innisfree” is one of William Butler Yeats’s most famous poems. It was written in 1888 and published in his 1890 collection of poems, “The Countess Kathleen and Various Legends and Lyrics“.

“The Lake of Innisfree” is a beautifully written poem about the desire for a simpler life, and the natural world that surrounds us. There is a yearning for something beyond the city and a mundane existence. The poem suggests that there is a certain peace and contentment that comes from living close to nature, something that is lacking in the city. It is a reminder of the importance of finding moments of peace and quiet in our busy lives, and of the power of nature to soothe and inspire us.

The Lake Isle of Innisfree


By William Butler Yeats
I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;
Nine bean-rows will I have there, a hive for the honey-bee,
And live alone in the bee-loud glade.
And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow,
Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings;
There midnight’s all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,
And evening full of the linnet’s wings.
I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey,
I hear it in the deep heart’s core.

June 13, 1865, William Butler Yeats is born.

William Butler Yeats, born on June 13, 1865, in Dublin, Ireland, was a revered poet and a key figure in 20th-century literature. Renowned for his lyrical beauty, symbolism, and profound themes, Yeats’s poetry continues to inspire readers worldwide.

Throughout his life, Yeats actively involved himself in the cultural and political landscape of Ireland. He was a co-founder of the Abbey Theatre and played a crucial role in the Irish Literary Revival. His literary contributions earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923.

Yeats’s poetry often reflected a yearning for a simpler life and a deep connection with nature. His famous poem, “The Lake Isle of Innisfree,” written in 1888, encapsulates this sentiment, expressing the desire to retreat to a small cabin on Innisfree Island and live in harmony with nature.

Beyond his literary achievements, Yeats delved into Irish folklore and mysticism, influencing his poetic imagery and symbolism. His profound exploration of Irish heritage and mythology added layers of depth to his work.

William Butler Yeats passed away on January 28, 1939, leaving behind a legacy of poetic masterpieces that continue to engage audiences with their timeless beauty and profound insights into the human experience.

William Butler Yeats by George Charles Beresford, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Published by Rebecca Budd

Blogger, Visual Storyteller, Podcaster, Traveler and Life-long Learner

21 thoughts on “Happy Birthday William Butler Yeats”

    1. A very insightful thought, Margaret – “retirement is that this is easier to achieve.” You gave me something to think about so I did a little research into the question – can we experience a simple life in a very complex demanding world.”

      Of course, it is possible according to many sources!!! LOL. In a world filled with complexity and demands, it is possible to experience a simple life IF we do the following:

      1) prioritize what truly matters,
      2) practice mindfulness,
      3) simplify daily routines.

      It seems that if we focus on the present moment, declutter our surroundings, and setting boundaries with technology and work, we can create a sense of simplicity and peace amidst the chaos of modern life.

      Have you ever noticed that “simple” is not all that simple!!!

      I love our conversations, Margaret. Thank you for stopping by!!!

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    1. I love the poetry of Yeats!

      I must tell you of my latest e-mail that I received from JSTOR, which featured the influence of Yeats’ wife, George. It seemed that to keep the marriage vibrant, George attempted automaticity writing, where a living medium writes out a spirit’s message. You will really enjoy this article, Dave. Check out this quote:

      “Most importantly, the spirits provided Yeats with raw material for his poems. All of it was from George’s pencil. It took decades for Yeats scholarship to state the obvious: “We are having to take an extraordinary fact into far more serious consideration than we have before,” wrote Margaret Mills Harper in 1988. “Much of the literary output of one of our century’s major poets from the year of his marriage on was directly influenced by a unique imaginative partnership with a highly creative woman.”
      https://daily.jstor.org/wb-yeats-live-in-spirit-medium/

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      2. When I read this article, I was reminded of your last post on prolific writers. I believe that writers, poets, artists, musicians are at their very best when they have strong support systems in place. It seems that Yeats’s support team included spirits! LOL!!

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    1. Oh Luisa, I am delighted that you enjoyed this poetry recitation. One day, when I am a little braver, I will recite “Sailing to Byzantium.” LOL!!!

      But I must tell you that I just found another poem by Yeats that speaks to my heart.

      TO A CHILD DANCING UPON THE SHORE

      Dance there upon the shore;
      What need have you to care
      For wind or water’s roar?
      And tumble out your hair
      That the salt drops have wet;
      Being young you have not known
      The fool’s triumph, nor yet
      Love lost as soon as won.
      And he, the best warrior, dead
      And all the sheaves to bind!
      What need that you should dread
      The monstrous crying of wind?

      William Butler Yeats

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  4. A beautiful poem, read so well by you in a gorgeous setting. Thanks. I thought of WB Yeats when I visited Trinity College last year. Ireland is home to many literary greats!

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    1. I am so pleased you enjoyed this poetry recitation, Darlene. I initially recorded this poem, during the peak of the Covid lockdown. Reciting the words in nature brought about a sense of contentment and peace. Reflecting on that period of social distancing, it stands out as a significant and positive experience for me.

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    1. I remember the first time that I read this poem in high school, Liz. There is such a lonesomeness within the vivid imagery and nostalgic tone. Yeats’s evocative descriptions of the natural landscape and the desire for a solitary retreat resonated with me. I recited this during the height of Covid’s social distancing. I think the words tap into a universal longing for connection with the natural world and a simpler way of living.

      By the way, did you read that young people want to return to “dumb phones” – the ones with phone and text only. I find that quite interesting!!! It seems that every generation longs for simply ways of living.

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