The traumatic murder-suicide of his parents in 1901 defined the trajectory of Conrad Aiken, an American polymath whose expansive bibliography spans poetry, novels, short stories, and criticism. Educated at Middlesex School and Harvard University, he spent his adult life traversing the Atlantic, ultimately bridging the literary cultures of New England and his native Savannah.
Formative Years and Academic Influences
Born in Savannah in 1889, Aiken experienced a profound childhood disruption when his father killed his mother and subsequently took his own life. Following this event, he moved north, eventually attending Harvard University between 1907 and 1912. During these years, he edited the Advocate alongside his close associate T. S. Eliot and engaged deeply with the philosophical teachings of George Santayana.
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Aiken integrated depth psychology into his work, drawing on the theories of Freud, Jung, and Adler to navigate his internal landscape. His literary production was prolific, exceeding 51 books. Significant recognition included the 1930 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for Selected Poems, the 1954 National Book Award, and the 1955 Bollingen Prize. From 1950 to 1952, he served as the United States Poet Laureate.
International Life and Professional Circles
Living as a writer in both the United States and England, Aiken maintained significant professional relationships, including mentoring the author Malcolm Lowry. He spent substantial time in Rye, East Sussex, and later settled in Brewster, Massachusetts. His personal life was marked by three marriages to Jessie McDonald, Clarissa Lorenz, and the painter Mary Hoover.
Final Years in Savannah
In his later years, Aiken split his time between his Brewster farmhouse, known as Forty-One Doors, and a residence in Savannah. He died on August 17, 1973, at the age of 84. His remains are interred at Bonaventure Cemetery, with his grave marked by a bench inscribed with the phrases 'Give my love to the world' and 'Cosmos Mariner—Destination Unknown'.
Fast facts
- Born: 1889, Savannah
- Died: 1973, Savannah and Brewster
- Education: Harvard University (1907-1912)
- Pulitzer Prize for Poetry: 1930
- National Book Award: 1954
- Bollingen Prize: 1955
- United States Poet Laureate: 1950-1952
- Burial site: Bonaventure Cemetery
Questions readers ask
Did Conrad Aiken ever meet Sigmund Freud?
No, although Freud expressed interest in analyzing him after reading the novel Great Circle, Aiken declined to meet him due to misgivings and financial constraints.
What is the significance of the tombstone at Aiken's grave?
The headstone is shaped as a bench, serving as a symbolic invitation for visitors to sit and have a drink, reflecting his reported wishes.
Achievements
- Bollingen Prize — 1955
- Pulitzer Prize for Poetry — 1930
- Fellowship of the Academy of American Poets — 1957
- National Book Award — 1954