Introduction to Anguished Bards

Throughout history, many poets have suffered turmoil and despair, often reflecting these emotions through their evocative works. This 'Tortured Poets Department' explores their lives, their sorrows, and the beauty they created amidst suffering.

Plath's poetry is known for its confessional style and the deep depression she endured. She innovatively used a technique called 'poetic therapy', but tragically, her inner demons led her to suicide at the age of 30.

Poe's works often mirrored his life's hardships, including poverty, illness, and the loss of loved ones. His writing, while dark and mysterious, was also pioneering, influencing the modern detective story and the science fiction genre.

Though not a poet, van Gogh's poignant letters carry a lyrical quality. His written words unveil the suffering behind his paintings and have inspired poetry, revealing the interconnectedness of art forms in expressing anguish.

Like Plath, Sexton used poetry to confront personal issues, including mental illness and marital strife. Her work won the Pulitzer Prize, yet she faced criticism for her frank discussions of taboo subjects.

The Spanish poet and playwright was executed during the Spanish Civil War. Lorca's passionate works, imbued with political undertones and a sense of premonition, became symbols of the artistic voice silenced by oppression.

Mishima's poetry and novels were overshadowed by his dramatic suicide, a protest against the Westernization of Japan. His death was a theatrical final act that echoed the intensity and conflict present in his writings.