John Goodridge Ordre des livres (chronologique)

Exploring the literary influences on Clare, this study delves into the impact of his rural folk culture upbringing alongside the contemporary literature of his time. It examines how these elements shaped his writing, revealing the interplay between his environment and the broader literary landscape. The analysis provides insight into Clare's unique voice and the themes that permeate his work, highlighting the significance of both tradition and modernity in his literary development.

The study delves into the significant impact of self-taught English rural poetry on eighteenth-century literary culture, challenging previous perceptions. John Goodridge analyzes works by James Thomson, Stephen Duck, and Mary Collier, while closely examining John Dyer's The Fleece. The exploration highlights the purpose of rural poetry and its connection to real-world agricultural and folkloric developments, revealing a deeper understanding of the genre's relevance during that period.