Moore, Thomas

The Irish poet was born in Dublin on May 28, 1779. His earliest poetic compositions appeared in Anthologia Hibernica during the years 1792-1795. He briefly studied law in London, and other than a brief foray into parliamentary politics, the primary focuses of his life were poetry and the cultivation of aristocratic society. Irish Melodies is his most lasting claim to fame, and this work has been credited with both preserving and popularising the numerous ancient Irish airs which form its core.

From the guide to the Thomas Moore - Letters, MS 15., 1804-1847, (Rice University)