McGonagall, William (1825?-1902), a Scottish poet, became famous for his appalling poetry. McGonagall has been called the world’s worst poet. His verse was especially ridiculed for its awkward rhymes. Although he was continually mocked during his lifetime for his verse, McGonagall never lost faith in himself as a writer. McGonagall’s poems dealt with subjects of national interest, especially shipwrecks and battles. His best-known poem, “The Tay Bridge Disaster,” commemorated the destruction in 1879 of the railroad bridge over the Tay River.
The following lines are typical of McGonagall’s work:
Ye lovers of the picturesque, if ye would drown your grief Take my advice and visit the ancient town of Crieff; The climate is bracing, and the walks lovely to see, Besides, ye can ramble all over the district and view the beautiful scenery.
McGonagall was born in Edinburgh and later worked as a weaver in Dundee. He gave readings of his poetry in public houses and published his works on broadsheets. His verse was collected in Poetic Gems (1890). He died on Sept. 29, 1902.
