Frank Oliver Call

Frank Oliver Call was a Canadian poet and academic whose work contributed significantly to the evolution of Canadian poetry in the early 20th century. Born in Brome Lake, Quebec, he pursued his education at Bishop's University in Paris, Marburg, and McGill University, eventually becoming a professor of languages at both Bishop's and McGill. His poetic publications include notable collections such as In a Belgian Garden (1916), Acanthus and Wild Grape (1920), Blue Homespun (1924), and Sonnets for Youth (1944). Acanthus and Wild Grape stands out as his most acclaimed work, showcasing a duality in style: the first section adheres to traditional Victorian forms, while the second embraces free verse, marking a significant transition in Canadian poetry from Victorian influences to modernist expressions. Call's literary significance lies in his role as a bridge between earlier Canadian poets like Bliss Carman and Archibald Lampman and the modernist movements represented by poets such as E. J. Pratt and Dorothy Livesay. His poetry has also garnered attention for its exploration of homoerotic themes, particularly in Sonnets for Youth, although there is limited biographical evidence regarding his personal identification with these themes. Call's contributions to Canadian literature and academia have left a lasting impact, influencing generations of poets and enriching the cultural landscape of Canada.