Ted Hughes

Ted Hughes was an English poet and children's writer, known for his powerful, imaginative, and often darkly pastoral verse. He served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1984 until his death in 1998. Hughes's work is marked by a deep engagement with the natural world and a profound mythic sensibility. He was married to the American poet Sylvia Plath until her death in 1963.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Birthday Letters

    Cover of 'Birthday Letters' by Ted Hughes

    "Birthday Letters" is a collection of 88 poetic works that serve as a deeply personal reflection on the author's tumultuous relationship with his late wife. The poems, written over a span of 25 years but not published until after her death, depict the intense passion, emotional struggles, and heartbreaking tragedy that marked their life together. Through his evocative storytelling, the author provides a raw and intimate glimpse into his own psyche and the profound impact their relationship had on his life.

  2. 2. The Rattle Bag

    Cover of 'The Rattle Bag' by Seamus Heaney, Ted Hughes

    This anthology is a diverse and eclectic collection of poetry, curated with the intention of captivating readers with its variety and depth. It eschews traditional chronological or thematic organization, instead opting for an alphabetical arrangement by title, which encourages serendipitous discovery and juxtaposes poems in unexpected ways. The editors, both acclaimed poets themselves, have selected works that span centuries and continents, including both well-loved classics and lesser-known gems. The collection is designed to appeal to a wide audience, inviting readers to explore the rich landscape of poetry in a fresh and engaging manner.

  3. 3. The Iron Giant

    Cover of 'The Iron Giant' by Ted Hughes

    The book tells the story of a mysterious metal-eating robot, the Iron Giant, who emerges from nowhere and befriends a young boy. As the giant becomes a local pariah for consuming the community's metal, the boy helps him find a peaceful existence. However, when an even greater threat descends upon Earth, the Iron Giant proves to be a savior, using his incredible strength and selfless courage to defend the planet, ultimately transforming into a hero and earning the respect and admiration of those who once feared him.

  4. 4. Collected Poems of Ted Hughes

    Cover of 'Collected Poems of Ted Hughes' by Ted Hughes

    This book is a compilation of the poetic works of a renowned British poet, known for his vivid, powerful language and raw emotion. It spans his entire career, from his first collection to his last, showcasing his evolution as a writer. His poems often explore themes of nature, mythology, and the human condition, reflecting his deep connection to the natural world and his insightful observations on life and death. The collection serves as a comprehensive testament to his remarkable talent and enduring influence in the world of poetry.

  5. 5. Tales from Ovid

    Cover of 'Tales from Ovid' by Ted Hughes

    This book is a modern translation and adaptation of 24 of Ovid's stories from the Metamorphoses. It presents the tales in a language that is both poetic and contemporary, bringing to life the drama and humor of the original Latin text. The stories, which are full of transformations, adventures, and mythical creatures, explore themes such as love, power, revenge, and metamorphosis.