THANATOPSIS
BY WILLIAM CULLEN BRYANT
William Cullen Bryant (1794-1878) served as longtime
editor of the New York Evening Post and published
many popular works throughout his lifetime. His style
was greatly influenced by Neo-Classical and early
Romantic poets in England. As such, Bryant used
traditional forms and rhythms. He became known as
one of the “Fireside Poets,” and his works remained
popular for generations, particularly as pieces for
American school children to memorize and perform
aloud.