What was so great about Henry Wadsworth Longfellow when it came to his work? What inspired him make write the types of poetry that he had?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Wadsworth_Longfellow

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was a highly regarded American poet of the 19th century. He gained popularity for his literary works, which were characterized by their accessibility, universal themes, and romantic sensibilities. His poems often touched upon topics such as love, friendship, patriotism, and the human condition.

Longfellow's greatness can be attributed to several notable aspects of his work:

1. Evocative storytelling: One of Longfellow's remarkable talents was his ability to tell stories and create vivid imagery through his poetry. His narratives, often filled with rich descriptions, captured the imagination of readers and allowed them to empathize with his characters.

2. Melodic verse: Longfellow's poetry was known for its musicality and rhythm. He carefully crafted his verses, paying attention to meter, rhyme, and cadence, which resulted in a harmonious flow of words. This musical quality contributed to the pleasant reading experience and made his poetry recitations highly popular.

3. Wide appeal: Longfellow's poetry appealed to a broad audience due to its relatable themes and straightforward language. Unlike some of his contemporaries who wrote complex and dense verse, Longfellow aimed to create works that could be appreciated by all, regardless of educational background or social status.

Regarding the inspiration behind Longfellow's work, he was influenced by various factors:

1. Historical events: Longfellow often drew inspiration from historical events and figures. For instance, his famous poem "Paul Revere's Ride" was based on the American Revolution, while "The Song of Hiawatha" drew from Native American folklore and legends.

2. Transcendentalism: Longfellow was acquainted with the transcendentalist movement, a philosophical and literary movement that emphasized nature's role in spiritual and human growth. Although he did not fully embrace transcendentalism, he incorporated elements of it in his works, infusing them with a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world.

3. Personal experiences: Longfellow's own life experiences also served as inspiration for his poetry. For instance, the tragic death of his wife in a fire deeply affected him, and influenced some of his more melancholic poems, such as "The Cross of Snow."

In summary, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's greatness as a poet stemmed from his skill in storytelling, his melodic verse, and his ability to resonate with a wide audience. He drew inspiration from historical events, transcendentalism, and his personal experiences to create works that are still celebrated today.