William Cullen Bryant (1794-1878) was born in Massachusetts. He is considered to be one of the finest romantic poets in early American literary history. William wrote poetry from a young age. In 1811, he began working on one of his most famous poems, Thanatopsis (a Greek title which means meditation on death). The depth and maturity of the poem lead to it being initially mistakenly attributed to his father, Dr. Bryant. Once clarification of it's owner was established, the poem was published in 1817, marking William's early talent for poetry. Bryant is considered one of the most significant poets of his time, and is included among the group known as the 'fireside poets', a group of internationally acclaimed American poets who rivalled British poets, whose works would entertain families, at home, gathered around the fireside. This book is an important comprehensive collection of his poetry for you to study and enjoy.