W.H. Davies, also known as William Henry Davies, was a Welsh poet and writer born in 1871. He is best known for his work in the early 20th century, during the Georgian period of British poetry. Davies’ literary style often reflected his own life experiences, as he spent a significant portion of his early years as a tramp, traveling and working odd jobs. This nomadic lifestyle greatly influenced his writing, which often explored themes of nature, solitude, and the struggles of the working class.
Davies’ most notable work is his collection of poems titled “The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp,” published in 1908. This semi-autobiographical work details his experiences as a tramp and offers a unique perspective on society and the human condition. His poems often celebrated the beauty of the natural world and captured the essence of the simple joys in life. W.H. Davies’ unique voice and perspective continue to influence the genre of poetry, particularly in the themes of nature, travel, and the exploration of the human experience.
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1930: The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp, by W.H .Davies, preface by G. Bernard Shaw
$95.00The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp is a memoir by W.H. Davies, with a preface by G. Bernard Shaw. The book is part of The Travellers’ Library series and was published by Jonathan Cape in London. The memoir chronicles Davies’ life as a tramp and his experiences traveling throughout the United Kingdom and the United States in the early 20th century. Davies’ writing style is straightforward and honest, and he provides vivid descriptions of the people and places he encounters on his travels. The book offers a unique perspective on the life of a tramp during a time of great social and economic upheaval.
The hardcover edition of the book is in very good condition, with a blue cover and gilt lettering and ornamentation on the spine. There is a slight forward tilt to the spine, but otherwise the book is in excellent shape. The inside cover features an old faded signature from a previous owner, as well as a paper cutout with a 1920 portrait print of Davies by Laura Knight.