Unique Element About the Author / Historical Context A COLLECTION OF POEMS by HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW. The Masque of Pandora and Other Poems, by AMERICAN author HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW (1807-1882) is a collection of poems first published in 1875 in the UNITED STATES. Longfellow wrote many lyric poems known for their musicality and often presenting stories of mythology and legend. He was among the most popular American poet of his day and had success overseas. The title poem in this volume is a drama of Greek deities and was later adapted for the stage, and set to music by Alfred Cellier. This volume also includes "Morituri Salutamus" (We who Are about to Die Salute You, 1874), one of his few occasional poems. Written for the 15th reunion of his Bowdoin College class, it is a memorable reflection on aging and is Longfellow's most admired ode. The book also features "The Hanging of the Crane," "Birds of Passage: Flight the Fourth," and "A Book of Sonnets." Sneak Peak The form that thou hast fashioned out of clay Is of the earth and mortal; but the spirit, The life, the exhalation of my breath, Is of diviner essence and immortal. The gods shall shower on her their benefactions, She shall possess all gifts; the gift of song, The gift of eloquence, the gift of beauty, The fascination and the nameless charm That shall lead all men captive. Title Details Originally published in 1875 5.5 x 8.5 inches