Walter Savage Landor (1775 – 1864) was an English poet, essayist, and activist known for his sharp wit, classical style, and passionate political views. Though less popular in his time, he was admired by literary greats like Charles Dickens and Robert Browning. His best-known works include the prose collection Imaginary Conversations and the poem Rose Aylmer.
Born in Warwick, England, Landor was educated at Rugby School and Oxford, though his rebellious nature led to his expulsion. He pursued writing, publishing Gebir (1798), an epic poem praised for its vivid imagery. A staunch republican, he supported revolutionary movements in Europe, including the fight for Italian unification.
Landor’s Imaginary Conversations, published in the 1820s and 1830s, consisted of dialogues between historical and literary figures, blending philosophy, politics, and literature. His poetry, while often lyrical and intimate, reflected his fiery personality and classical influences. His satirical epigrams targeted political opponents, showcasing his sharp wit.
Despite his literary talent, Landor’s personal life was tumultuous. He quarreled with publishers, engaged in legal disputes, and spent years in self-imposed exile in Italy. His stormy marriage and financial struggles added to his reputation as a difficult but brilliant figure.
By the end of his life, Landor had gained a devoted literary following. He died in 1864, leaving behind a body of work admired for its elegance and intellectual depth. Today, he is recognized as a "poet’s poet", whose influence shaped later literary movements.