Author: Oliver Wendell Holmes

Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. (1809–1894) was an eminent American physician, poet, and polymath based in Boston. A member of the Fireside Poets, his work is recognized for its playfulness, wit, and humor. Trained in medicine, Holmes also made notable contributions to this field, but he remains best remembered for his writing, which has earned him a distinguished place in American literature. His text “The Poet at the Breakfast-Table” published in 1872, is the third in his “Breakfast-Table” series, showcasing his mastery in blending genial conversation with intellectual musings, and it deepens his exploration of the interplay between the personal and the philosophical. Holmes”s literary style frequently combines a conversational tone with keen observations of social peculiarities, a testament to his belief in the personal voice as a conduit for profound expression. His versatility and ability to traverse the landscapes of both scientific inquiry and literary creativity set Holmes apart as a unique figure in American letters.