Dylan Marlais Thomas (October 27th 1914 – 9th November 1953 was a Welsh poet and writer born in Swansea, Wales. A fairly undistinguished pupil, Thomas left school at 16 to become a journalist. Though he was publishing poetry from a teenager, he finally got his ‘break’ in 1934 with the publication of “Light breaks where no sun shines”.
Dylan Thomas would go on to publish many works including well known poems such as “Do not go gentle into that good night”, the play “Under Milk Wood” and other short stories and writings.
After travelling to the USA in 1950, Thomas enjoyed a certain level of fame, though that also led to erratic behaviour and the drinking that would soon bring about his premature death at just 39 years old. My own favourite ‘Dylan tale’ is from this time, a recollection of him drunk, standing on a bar stool in New York and booming “Land of my fathers? My fathers can bloody have them.”
In life and death Dylan was a fascinating man and his poetry wonderful, so today I’ve put together a little Dylan reading list, books by and about the great poet and one of Wales’ finest exports.
The Collected Poems of Dylan Thomas
I own this and it’s a wonderful gem. It’s the latest and most complete collection of Dylan’s works and is available in paperback too. There are also some excellent notes throughout the book for those wanting to analyse his works.
Dylan Thomas: Collected Stories
The Collected Stories are a collection of Thomas’s lesser known works, full of early surrealist stories and autobiographical tales.
Dylan Thomas: The Collected Letters
The Collected Letters, edited by Paul Ferris is a fascinating insight into Dylan’s life, his private thoughts and his writing.
Under Milk Wood
Though I would maintain that Under Milk Wood is better listened to than read, there are some beautiful illustrated versions out there, and it’s a beautiful and comical story about Welsh life.
Dylan Thomas: The Biography
If you want to know more about the author’s life, then Dylan Thomas: The Biography has been the definitive biography since its release in 1977.
Dylan Thomas: The Biography US
Dylan Thomas: The Biography UK
Dylan Thomas: A New Life
Andrew Lycett’s account of the poet’s life, published in 2003 has challenged the earlier biography’s claim to be definitive, uncovering new information found in recent years.
My Life with Dylan Thomas: Double Drink Story
In My Life with Dylan Thomas, Caitlin Thomas adds her side of the story, chronicling their marriage in this fantastic memoir.
Dylan Thomas and the Bohemians
Gabriel & Leonie Summers account of Dylan’s relationship with the bohemian circle that included photographer Nora Summers is iconic and fascinating, including photos from the photographer.
Dylan Thomas and the Bohemians US
Dylan Thomas and the Bohemians UK
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