1957 Fredericton Encaenia

Pratt, Edwin John

Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.)

Orator: Toole, F.J.

Image
Image Caption
L to R: Colin B. Mackay, Beverley F. Macaulay, Edwin John Pratt
Second Image Caption
Source: Joe Stone fonds-UA RG340, 1957-3A (#573715)

Citation:

ENCAENIA, MAY, 1957
EDWIN JOHN PRATT
to be Doctor of Letters

My Lord Chief Justice, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen:

As a university with a proud literary tradition, it is fitting that the University of New Brunswick should pay its tribute to Edwin John Pratt, the greatest living Canadian poet. By his rigorous narratives, his subtle lyrics, and the deeply humane vision which pervades all his work, Dr. Pratt has won the admiration of all lovers of poetry.

Born in Newfoundland, Dr. Pratt moved to Toronto as a young man to complete his education at the University of Toronto. After toying for a year or two with the unpoetic discipline of psychology, he became a member of the Department of English at Victoria College and was a much-loved professor there until his recent retirement.

His first book of verse, Newfoundland Verse, appeared in 1923, and was followed by such outstanding volumes as Titans, The Witches' Brew, The Iron Door, The Roosevelt and the Antinoe, The Titanic, The Fable of the Goats, Brébeuf and His Brethren, and Towards the Last Spike. As student, professor, and poet he has always exhibited qualities of energy, courage, optimism, and compassion which have endeared him to all who have known him.

The alma mater of Roberts, Carman and Sherman is proud to welcome Edwin John Pratt, great man and great poet.

From: Honoris Causa - UA Case 70, Box 1

Citations may be reproduced for research purposes only. Publication in whole or in part requires written permission from the author.