Robert Bloomfield English folk poet Date of Birth: 03.12.1766 Country: Great Britain

1. Childhood and Education
2. The Farmer's Boy
3. Recognition and Patronage
4. Financial Struggles and Personal Tragedy
5. Death and Legacy

Childhood and Education

Robert Bloomfield was born in Honington, Suffolk, England, in 1766. His father, a tailor, died of smallpox when Robert was just a year old. Elizabeth, Robert's mother, provided him with some education before sending him to London to apprentice as a shoemaker with his older brother, George.

While in London, Robert's primary duty was to read newspapers aloud to his fellow shoemakers. Inspired by the poetry he encountered in "The London Magazine," he began experimenting with his own verse. His earliest known poem, "The Village Girl," was published in 1786.

The Farmer's Boy

In 1790, Robert married Mary Ann Church and had five children with her. He wrote his most celebrated poem, "The Farmer's Boy," while working in a crowded garret in Bell Alley. Despite his lack of access to writing materials, Robert memorized his verses.

After several publishers rejected his work, his brother George showed it to Capel Lofft, a literary patron. Lofft convinced publisher Thomas Bewick to print the poem in 1800. "The Farmer's Boy" became an unexpected bestseller, selling 25,000 copies. It was also translated into French, German, and Italian.

Recognition and Patronage

Bloomfield's success brought him some financial relief and allowed him to dedicate more time to writing. A local earl granted him a minor government post, but Robert did not remain in the position for long. He published additional works, including "Rural Tales," "The Miller's Maid," and "Good Tidings," further establishing his reputation as a talented poet.

Financial Struggles and Personal Tragedy

Unfortunately, Bloomfield's publishers went bankrupt in 1812, forcing him to relocate to Bedfordshire. His wife suffered a mental breakdown, and one of his daughters died in 1814. Despite attempts at business ventures, Robert remained unsuccessful. As his eyesight deteriorated, he became increasingly depressed.

Death and Legacy

Robert Bloomfield died in 1823, impoverished and unable to overcome his financial struggles. His family sold his books and manuscripts to pay off creditors and expenses.

Bloomfield's poetry is often compared to the works of George Crabbe, another Suffolk poet who wrote on rural themes. Bloomfield's verse is generally considered more optimistic and lively.

In 1973, a school in Shefford was named after Robert Bloomfield. A collection of his poems was republished in 2007 by Trent Editions. His most famous work, "The Farmer's Boy," has been translated into Russian.