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If the war goes on I believe I shall find myself a sort of Englishman, though neither poet or soldier' - Letter to Walter de la Mare, 30th August Philip Edward Thomas was born in Lambeth, London in , of Welsh descent. A prolific writer of prose including biographies of Richard Jefferies, Swinburne, and Keats , and a moderately successful journalist, his work concentrated on the image of England and the countryside.

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Thomas suffered from severe bouts of depression and recurrent psychological breakdowns, feeling creatively repressed by the endless reviews and ill-paid commissions he had to do to support himself and his family. Although happier with his writings on countryside that mixed observation, information, literary criticism, self-reflection and portraiture, Thomas still felt that his style was not original enough to merit recognition and struggled to find a form which suited him.

It was only after a meeting with Robert Frost, the American poet, in that he devoted himself fully to the medium of poetry. His poetry also acted as the 'metaphysical counterpart' to his decision to join the army Longley, , Thomas was sent to Hare Hall Camp at Romford, Essex, where he worked as a map-reading instructor and was promoted to lance-corporal, then full corporal.

Given his age, Thomas could have honourably remained in this post throughout the War, however in September he began training in the Royal Garrison Artillery and when he was commissioned second lieutenant in November he volunteered for service overseas. Thomas left England for France in January and served with no. On the 9th April Thomas was killed by a shell blast in the first hour of the Battle of Arras at an observation post whilst directing fire.

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Thomas wrote no poetry that we know of during his time in France, however his small pocket diary shows him to be a changed man, an efficient officer and a prolific energised writer. Thomas is buried in Agny military cemetery on the outskirts of Arras. He was survived by his wife Helen and three children, Bronwen, Merfyn and Myfanwy. Thomas did not live to see Poems , published under his pseudonym, Edward Eastaway.

In just under two years he had written over poems. You are here Home.