Author: Horace Smith

Horace Smith (1779–1849), an English author and poet of the nineteenth century, was known predominantly for his collaboration with his brother, James Smith, with whom he co-authored the renowned “Rejected Addresses; Or, The New Theatrum Poetarum” (1812). This particular work is a series of parodies on contemporary poets, and it was met with such immediate acclaim that it saw numerous editions. A satire of poetic styles, it cleverly mimics writers like Wordsworth and Coleridge, capturing their idiosyncratic versification and themes, thus showcasing Horace”s sharp wit and keen literary acumen. Beyond “Rejected Addresses, ” Horace Smith was also a novelist and a writer on financial topics, reflective of his professional background as a stockbroker. His literary style is often noted for its humor, insight, and ability to engage with the cultural and social issues of the Regency period. Though comparative literary critique may not position him in the first echelon of poets from this era, his contributions to the literary landscape—as a witty satirist and observant societal commentator—continue to be recognized by scholars and readers of Regency literature.