T s eliot wore green makeup

T.S. Eliot and his Quirky Green Makeup: Unveiling the Eccentricity

T.S. Eliot, the renowned British poet, known for his masterpiece “The Waste Land,” was not simply a literary genius but also harbored a captivating eccentricity — he had a proclivity for wearing green makeup. Discover the fascinating reasoning behind his peculiar choice and the significance it held for the poet.

T.S. Eliot’s Fascination with Green Makeup

T.S. Eliot’s choice to wear green makeup was not merely a random, whimsical decision. It held a significant symbolical meaning for the poet. Taking inspiration from his favorite literary work, William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” specifically the character of Ophelia, Eliot believed that the green makeup would add an additional layer of depth and complexity to his persona.

The Interpretation of Ophelia’s Madness

In “Hamlet,” Ophelia’s descent into madness is poetically depicted, and her madness is often associated with flowers. Shakespeare utilizes the language of flowers to convey Ophelia’s state of mind, with particular emphasis on the color green. This connection drew Eliot’s attention, and he sought to embody this essence through his own appearance.

Symbolism and Connection to Literature

Eliot’s choice of green makeup acted as a form of artistic expression, allowing him to embody the literary themes and characters closest to his heart. By donning the green paint, he sought to channel the spirit of Ophelia and pay homage to the depth and complexity of Shakespearean literature.

Unveiling the Eccentricity

Despite the unconventional nature of this quirky habit, Eliot did not wear the green makeup in public. Instead, he reserved this secret for private settings, such as gatherings with close friends and fellow writers. The green mask served as an intimate extension of his creative world, a whimsical and unique form of self-expression.

Conclusion

The significance behind T.S. Eliot’s affinity for green makeup lay in his desire to connect with the characters and themes of his favorite literary work, “Hamlet.” By embodying the essence of Ophelia’s madness through this peculiar habit, Eliot added an extra layer of complexity to his personal identity. Through the private wearing of green makeup, he allowed his eccentricity to flourish, providing a glimpse into the imaginative and idiosyncratic world of one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century.

Source: The Guardian