The History of Literature: Episode 677 – Dylan Thomas with John Goodby | Emily Brontë and the Search for Hope

Introduction

In this episode of The History of Literature, host Jack Wilson delves into the complex legacy of Dylan Thomas, exploring the man behind the myth with the assistance of his biographer, John Goodby. The discussion not only highlights Thomas's contributions to 20th-century poetry and literature but also examines the enduring stereotypes that have overshadowed his literary prowess.

Guest Introduction

• John Goodby: Professor of Arts and Culture at Sheffield Hallam University, expert on Dylan Thomas, and co-author of a critical biography on Thomas for the Critical Live series by Reaction Books.

Dylan Thomas's Literary Standing in the UK and Beyond

John Goodby provides insight into Thomas's dual legacy in popular culture and academic circles:

• Popularity vs. Academic Recognition: While Dylan Thomas remains a household name in Britain, particularly among the general public, his prominence as a subject of academic study has waned compared to 40-50 years ago. Goodby notes, “[...] popular knowledge of him as a figure is still quite widespread [...] Under Milk Wood...Strand Films...spoken word industry” (20:14).

• Media Presence: Thomas's work, especially Under Milk Wood, continues to be broadcast, maintaining his presence in popular media.

Critical Reception and Stereotypes

Goodby discusses the fluctuating critical reception of Thomas:

• Rise and Fall in Criticism: Thomas enjoyed significant critical acclaim in the 1950s and 60s, which subsequently declined due to shifting literary trends and conservative backlash in the late 1970s. He explains, “[...] English critics in particular saw him as beneath themselves. [...] part of what I was doing was an attempt to redeem him” (17:55).

• Stereotypical Portrayals: The enduring image of Thomas as a boisterous, alcoholic poet overshadows his literary achievements. Goodby remarks, “It's the sort of person who, you know, you might take to a party. [...] He's beloved of film stars and rock stars” (35:34).

Dylan Thomas's Persona and Media Influence

Thomas's adeptness at navigating various media platforms contributed to his widespread fame:

• Multifaceted Career: Beyond poetry, Thomas wrote radio plays, short stories, and film scripts, engaging with emerging media like LP records and television. Goodby highlights, “He was the favorite poet of John Lennon, [...] spoken word industry” (44:56).

• Cultural Icon: Thomas became a symbol bridging high art and mass culture, making his work accessible while retaining artistic depth.

Childhood and Early Influences

Goodby outlines the formative years that shaped Thomas's literary voice:

• Early Life in Swansea: Raised in a supportive yet complex household, Thomas was influenced by his father's English teaching and his mother's affectionate nature. “His father was the English master at the school he went to [...] his mother was very, very cozy and loving” (46:09).

• Dual Influences: Exposure to both structured education and amateur theatre fostered Thomas’s dramatic and rhythmic poetic style.

Literary Style and Influences

The conversation touches upon Thomas's stylistic development and literary influences:

• Joycean Influence: Thomas inherited and transformed James Joyce's innovative use of language, embracing a lyrical and rhythmic style that often defies straightforward comprehension. Goodby states, “Carl Shapiro...subvert its standard syntax [...] develop different personalities” (24:04).

• Modernist Elements: Thomas’s work reflects high modernism, characterized by complex structures and thematic depth, making his poetry both challenging and rewarding.

John Goodby’s Motivation and Scholarly Contribution

Goodby explains his dedication to reevaluating Dylan Thomas’s work:

• Academic Revival: Recognizing the neglect of Thomas in contemporary literary studies, Goodby and his co-author Chris Wigginton sought to reintroduce him to modern critical frameworks like feminism and deconstruction. “We thought we were going some way towards unpicking [...] getting to grips with Thomas's work” (25:56).

• Challenging Stereotypes: Goodby aims to dismantle the simplistic, often negative stereotypes surrounding Thomas, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of his literary contributions.

Dylan Thomas’s Legacy and Future Perception

Looking ahead, Goodby speculates on Thomas's lasting impact:

• Enduring Works: Classics like Under Milk Wood and Fern Hill are expected to remain staples in literary anthologies, appreciated both for their artistic merit and cultural significance. “He'll still be read, [...] more Central to the 1930s” (57:08).

• Cultural Memes and Commercialization: Thomas’s lines have permeated popular culture, ensuring his continued relevance. Goodby observes, “Thomas will always be intermeshed [...] gateway to something else” (60:27).

Conclusion

John Goodby’s insights provide a comprehensive reevaluation of Dylan Thomas, advocating for recognition beyond his storied persona. By contextualizing Thomas’s work within both historical and modern frameworks, Goodby underscores the poet’s significant yet often underappreciated contributions to literature.

Notable Quotes

• Jack Wilson [16:35]: “So popular knowledge of him as a figure is still quite widespread and that's because of the way that 1960s pop culture picked him up, film musicians and so on.”

• John Goodby [35:34]: “He's one of the few poets who actually manages to straddle these very different worlds. The esoteric high art [...] and mass appeal.”

• John Goodby [44:56]: “If you look at his day to day records, yes, he's capable of excess. […] But most of the time he is concentrated on being a professional writer.”

Final Thoughts

This episode adeptly navigates the intricacies of Dylan Thomas's literary journey, challenging preconceived notions and highlighting the multifaceted nature of his legacy. Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for Thomas's artistry and the enduring relevance of his work in both academic and popular spheres.