HOOD, Thomas, English poet and humor ist: b. London, 23 May 1799; d. there, 3 May 1845. In 1821 he became sub-editor of the Lon don Magazine, and from that time appears to have resolved on devoting himself entirely to a literary life. In 1826 he published 'Whims and Oddities.) This was followed by 'National Tales) in prose, and a volume of serious poetry, which, though favorably received, did not obtain much popularity. In 1830 he started the Comic Annual, which, during the eight years of its existence, was made the vehicle of many of his most remarkable productions. At the same time his pen was diligently employed on other subjects, and he published the powerful poem called 'Eugene Aram's Dream) 'Tylney Hail,) a novel, which, though defective in its plan and structure, abounds in fine strokes of wit and humor. His health had begun to fail, and in consequence he lived on the Continent 1835-40. He continued his Comic Annual during his residence at Coblenz and Ostend, and in 1838 published Hood's Own. His continental ex
periences also furnished materials for his 'Up the Rhine) (1839), a series of imaginary letters after the manner of Smollett's 'Humphrey Clinker) The whimsical cuts inserted in the work, as well as its combination of good sense and humor, made it very popular. Shortly after his return, he undertook the editorship of the New Monthly Magazine, and continued it un til 1843. His principal contribution to it was the famous tragicomic story in verse of 'Miss kiimansegg.) His last periodical, entitled Hood's Magazine, was commenced in 1844. It contains some of his best productions, though several of them were written after his health had completely given way, and while he was propped up by pillows in bed. Hood is unrivaled as a punster, and seems to have been almost equal master of the comic and the pathetic. In the latter style his 'Song of the Shirt) is universally known, and as a burst of poetry and indignation gave him enduring fame.