ABSE, DANNIE.
Dannie Abse papers, 1949-1991

Restrictions on Access

Unrestricted access.

Terms Governing Use and Reproduction

All requests subject to limitations noted in departmental policies on reproduction.

Related Materials in Other Repositories

Dannie Abse papers, National Library of Wales.

Source

Gift of The Poets Trust, 2004.

Custodial History

Originally received as part of the Raymond Danowski Poetry Library.

Citation

[after identification of item(s)], Dannie Abse papers, Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University.

Appraisal Note

Acquired by Director of the Rose Library, Steve Enniss, as part of the Rose Library's holdings in British literature.

Processing

Processed by Dorothy Waugh, August 2013.

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Biographical Note

Born in Cardiff, Wales, Dannie Abse (b. September 22, 1923) established careers as both a doctor and a writer. In his early twenties, he followed in the footsteps of his brother Wilfred and other members of the family to pursue a career in medicine, serving as a part-time physician in London until 1989. At the same time-and inspired by his brother Leo's command of language as a vocal supporter of the Republican forces during the Spanish Civil War and, later, as a member of Parliament-Abse developed an interest in writing. His first book of poetry, After Every Green Thing, was accepted for publication in 1946. Although it is for his poetry that he is best known, Abse has also written several novels and plays, in addition to an autobiography, A Strong Dose of Myself, published in 1983. Recurring themes throughout his writing include medicine, Abse's Jewish heritage and Welsh identity. He served as president of the Poetry Society from 1978 until 1992 and was writer-in-residence at Princeton University from 1973 to 1974.

Scope and Content Note

The collection consists of papers of Dannie Abse from 1949 to 1991, the bulk of which are posters, programs, and flyers documenting Abse's public appearances and publications. Also included are documents pertaining to the honorary degree awarded Abse from the University of Wales in 1990 and a transcript of an interview given by Abse on BBC Radio 4 about Voices in the Gallery, a volume of poetry edited by Abse and his wife and art historian, Joan Abse.

Arrangement Note

Arranged by record type.