William Empson was an influential English poet, literary critic, and advocate of close reading. Born in 1906, Empson became known for his groundbreaking work in the field of literary criticism, particularly his innovative approach to analyzing poetry. He is regarded as one of the key figures in the development of New Criticism, a critical methodology that emphasizes close textual analysis and the rejection of extrinsic factors in interpreting a literary work.
Empson's work is characterized by its complex and nuanced readings of poetry, often delving into multiple interpretations and layers of meaning. He was known for employing a range of critical techniques such as ambiguity, paradox, and binary oppositions to explore the rich potential of a poem. His most famous work, "Seven Types of Ambiguity," published in 1930, identified seven different types of ambiguity within poetry.
Aside from his literary criticism, Empson was also a skilled poet in his own right. His poetry often tackled profound philosophical and moral questions, while also showcasing his wit and linguistic dexterity. Some of his notable collections include "Poems" (1935) and "The Gathering Storm" (1940).
Throughout his career, Empson's contributions to literary criticism and poetry have had a lasting impact, influencing subsequent generations of readers, writers, and critics. His emphasis on careful textual analysis and exploration of multiple meanings in poetry has shaped the way literature is studied and understood today.
