Padraic Colum Playwright, Poet and Novelist, Born

Padraic Colum (8 December 1881 – 11 January 1972) was an Irish poet, novelist, dramatist, biographer, playwright, children’s author and collector of folklore. He was one of the leading figures of the Irish Literary Revival.

Early Life

Padraic Colum was born on December 08, 1881, in Longford, Ireland. Colum was born Patrick Columb in a County Longford workhouse, where his father worked. He was the first of eight children born to Patrick and Susan Columb.

Educational Background

Colum attended University College Dublin, where he studied both law and letters. He left university without completing his degree to pursue his interest in literature.

Early Literary Career

Colum began his literary career as a poet. His early poetry was influenced by the Irish Literary Revival and the Celtic Revival. He was associated with literary figures like W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory.

Move to the United States

In 1914, Colum emigrated to the United States, where he continued his writing career. He settled in New York City and became involved in the vibrant literary scene of the time.

Prose and Plays

Colum wrote numerous works, including poetry, plays, novels, and children’s literature. His plays often drew on Irish folklore and mythology. His notable works include “The Land,” “Wild Earth,” and “Dramatic Legends.”

Folklorist

Colum had a deep interest in Irish folklore, and he collected and retold many traditional Irish folktales. His collections, such as “The King of Ireland’s Son,” helped to preserve and popularize Irish folklore.

Marriage to Mary Gunning

Colum married Mary Gunning, a literary figure and collaborator, in 1912. They worked together on various projects, including anthologies of Irish poetry and folktales.

Teaching Career

In addition to his writing, Colum had a career as a teacher. He taught English literature at Columbia University and later at the City College of New York.

Later Life

Padraic Colum continued to write and publish throughout his life. He received various honors and awards for his contributions to literature.

Death

Padraic Colum passed away on January 11, 1972, in Enfield, Connecticut, United States.

Padraic Colum’s works continue to be appreciated for their lyrical quality, engagement with Irish folklore, and contribution to the literary heritage of Ireland and the broader English-speaking world.