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John BarlasScottish poet and politician
Date of Birth: 13.07.1860
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Content:
- Evelyn Douglas: A Decadent Poet and Revolutionary
- Decadent Poetry
- Political Activism
- Literary Connections
- Mental Health Struggles
- Final Years
Evelyn Douglas: A Decadent Poet and Revolutionary
Evelyn Douglas, a Scottish poet and political activist, was a prominent figure in both literary and political circles during the late 19th century.
Decadent Poetry
As a member of the decadent movement, Douglas's poetry was characterized by its sensuousness, morbidity, and exploration of the subconscious. He published eight volumes of poetry between 1884 and 1893, heavily influenced by the works of Algernon Charles Swinburne. Notable works include "The Blood Heart" (1885), "Phantasmagoria: Fugues in Dreamland" (1887), and "Love Sonnets" (1889).
Political Activism
Douglas was an ardent revolutionary socialist. He was a member of the Social Democratic Federation and contributed to William Morris's socialist journal, "The Commonwealth." In 1887, he participated in the "Bloody Sunday" demonstration at Trafalgar Square, where he was reportedly "batoned and knocked down," falling bloodied at the feet of Eleanor Marx.
Literary Connections
Douglas was associated with the Rhymers' Club, sponsored by Ernest Dowson. His non-political poems found great admiration from contemporary authors such as John Davidson and Henry Stevens Salt. Friends also remembered him as a brilliant conversationalist with a charming personality and striking appearance.
Mental Health Struggles
Despite his apparent brilliance, Douglas struggled with mental health issues. On New Year's Eve 1890, he was arrested for firing three shots at the House of Commons from Westminster Bridge, an act interpreted as a gesture of contempt toward Parliament. With the help of Oscar Wilde, who acted as his bail, Douglas was eventually committed to the Gartnavel Asylum in Glasgow.
Final Years
Douglas spent the rest of his life at Gartnavel, suffering from severe mental illness. He died there in 1914 at the age of 54, leaving behind a legacy of striking poetry and a life marked by both artistic brilliance and personal tragedy.
