James Graeme (poet) facts for kids

James Graeme (born December 15, 1749 – died July 26, 1772) was a Scottish poet. He lived a short life but was known for his thoughtful poems. His friend, Robert Anderson, helped share his work with the world after he passed away.

The Early Life of James Graeme

James Graeme was born on December 15, 1749. His hometown was Carnwath in Lanarkshire, Scotland. He was the youngest of four sons. His father, William Graeme, was a farmer.

Education and Studies

As a child, James was not very strong. Because of this, his parents decided he should study for the ministry. This meant he would become a church leader. He first learned to read at a local school. Then, he went to grammar schools in Carnwath, Libberton, and Lanark.

In 1767, James went to the University of Edinburgh. He studied there for three years. His good friend, Robert Anderson, later wrote about James's life. Anderson said James was excellent at learning classical subjects. He also studied metaphysics, which is about the nature of reality. James read many different kinds of books too.

In 1769, James received a special scholarship. This was at the University of St Andrews. But he soon left this scholarship. He returned to Edinburgh the next year. There, he joined a class to study theology, which is about religious beliefs.

Later Years and Passing

In 1771, James Graeme became a tutor. He taught the sons of Major Martin White. Major White lived in Milton, near Lanark. Sadly, James passed away from an illness called tuberculosis. He died in Carnwath on July 26, 1772. He was only 22 years old.

The Poems of James Graeme

James Graeme's poems included elegies and other different pieces. Elegies are poems that often express sadness or mourning. His fame as a poet grew thanks to his friend, Robert Anderson.

After James died, Robert Anderson published his friend's poems. He also included some of his own poems in a book. This book was called Poems on Several Occasions. It was published in Edinburgh in 1773. James's poems appeared again in other collections. These included Poets of Great Britain by Robert Anderson. They were also in British Poets by Richard Alfred Davenport. A selection of his works was also in The Works of the British Poets. This collection was put together by Thomas Park.