The Unicorn : for the Fortieth Anniversary of the Accession of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 6 February 1992 1992
Autograph single leaf manuscript on folded hand-made paper, presented in a folder with a typescript copy | 34 x 11.2 cm (folded sheet of paper) | RCIN 1008643
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This poem was written to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of The Queen’s accession to the throne, 6 February 1992. This manuscript in Hughes' hand, and a typescript copy, were presented to The Queen, and sent to the Royal Library. Ted Hughes was born in Mytholmroyd in West Yorkshire and brought up in South Yorkshire. He began writing poetry when at school and continued at Cambridge. His first wife, Sylvia Plath, encouraged Hughes to submit his manuscript The Hawk in the Rain for a competition and it was published in 1957. He continued writing poetry in which he explored the natural world and mythical themes. He also wrote many works for children. In 1984 he was appointed Poet Laureate and during this time he formed a close friendship with Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, to whom he presented a number of manuscripts and volumes of his poems. He was awarded the Order of Merit in 1998, shortly before he died.
Provenance
Presented to Queen Elizabeth II by the Author, 6 February 1992
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Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Autograph single leaf manuscript on folded hand-made paper, presented in a folder with a typescript copy
Measurements
34 x 11.2 cm (folded sheet of paper)
40.0 cm (Height) x 0.5 cm (Depth) (book measurement (conservation))
40.0 x 1.5 cm (folder)
Alternative title(s)
The Unicorn : for the fortieth anniversary of the accession of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 6 February 1992 / by the poet laureate Ted Hughes.