William Hughes Mearns Quotes
- Poet
- USA
- 1875
William Hughes Mearns was an American educator, poet, and playwright best known for his popular children’s poem “Antigonish” (also known as “The Little Man Who Wasn’t There”). He was born in 1875 in Philadelphia and received his education at Harvard University. Me…Read More
William Hughes Mearns was an American educator, poet, and playwright best known for his popular children’s poem “Antigonish” (also known as “The Little Man Who Wasn’t There”). He was born in 1875 in Philadelphia and received his education at Harvard University. Mearns worked as a teacher and school administrator before becoming a professor of education at New York University. In addition to “Antigonish,” he wrote several other poems and plays, including “The Goops” and “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Mearns passed away in 1965, but his work continues to be beloved by children and adults alike.Read Less
William Hughes Mearns was an American educator, poet, and playwright best known for his popular children’s poem “Antigonish” (also known as “The Little Man Who Wasn’t There”). He was born in 1875 in Philadelphia and received his education at Harvard University. Mearns worked as a teacher and school administrator before becoming a professor of education at New York University. In addition to “Antigonish,” he wrote several other poems and plays, including “The Goops” and “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Mearns passed away in 1965, but his work continues to be beloved by children and adults alike.
William Hughes Mearns Career Highlights
- William Hughes Mearns was an American poet and educator, best known for his poem “Antigonish” which popularized the phrase “I do not like thee, Dr. Fell.”
- He was born on July 20, 1875 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- Mearns worked as a teacher and school administrator for most of his career, serving as the principal of several schools in New York and New Jersey.
- He also wrote several books on education, including “The Psychology of Learning” and “The Child and the Curriculum.”
Key Contributions by William Hughes Mearns
- Mearns’ most famous contribution to literature is his poem “Antigonish,” which was first published in 1899 and has since been adapted into various forms, including a popular song and a horror film.
- He also wrote several other poems and children’s books, including “The Goops” series, which were humorous poems about manners and behavior.
- As an educator, Mearns was known for his progressive ideas and emphasis on child-centered learning. He believed in the importance of play and creativity in education.
- Mearns also served as the president of the New Jersey Education Association and was a member of the National Education Association.
What Sets William Hughes Mearns Apart
- Mearns’ use of humor and wit in his writing set him apart from other poets of his time. His poems were often lighthearted and playful, making them popular with both children and adults.
- As an educator, Mearns was ahead of his time in his progressive ideas and emphasis on child-centered learning. He believed in the importance of individualized education and the role of play in learning.
- Mearns’ poem “Antigonish” has become a cultural phenomenon, with its famous line “I do not like thee, Dr. Fell” being referenced in various forms of media and popular culture.
Takeaways
- William Hughes Mearns was a multi-talented individual, known for his contributions to both literature and education.
- His most famous work, the poem “Antigonish,” has stood the test of time and continues to be popular today.
- Mearns’ progressive ideas and emphasis on creativity and play in education have had a lasting impact on the field of education.
- His use of humor and wit in his writing sets him apart from other poets of his time and makes his work enjoyable for readers of all ages.