John Keats is remembered today as one of the greatest Romantic poets in English literature. His poetry is admired for its beauty, emotions, and deep understanding of human life. But his own life story was full of struggles, illness, and tragedy. This PDF book summary explains his full biography in simple Indian English so that students and readers can easily understand his journey, his works, and his lasting influence.

🌿 Early Life and Family Background

John Keats was born on 31 October 1795 in London. He came from a simple family, not a rich one. His father, Thomas Keats, worked at a livery stable, and his mother, Frances Jennings, took care of the home. From childhood, Keats was active, curious, and sensitive. But his early years were filled with sadness. His father died when Keats was just eight years old, and later he also lost his mother due to illness.

These tragedies had a strong impact on his mind. Yet, he continued his education with the help of his teachers and guardians. He developed a strong love for reading and poetry during school days. His teachers noticed that he was different from other children. He was emotional, thoughtful, and always interested in art and literature.

📚 Education and Early Career

Keats first trained to become a doctor. He studied medicine at Guy’s Hospital in London. His training required long hours, discipline, and practical skills. But during this time, his interest in poetry grew even stronger. He felt that poetry was his true calling.

Finally, at the age of 21, he left medical studies and decided to become a full-time poet. This was a very bold decision because poetry was not considered a stable career. But Keats trusted his talent and wanted to follow his passion.

✍️ Beginning of His Poetry Journey

Keats started writing poems seriously around 1814–1815. His early poems were influenced by famous writers like Spenser and Shakespeare. In 1817, his first book Poems by John Keats was published. Although it did not become very successful, Keats did not lose hope. He continued writing with full dedication.

His creativity reached a new level between 1818 and 1819. This short period is known as the “Great Year” in Keats’s life. During this time, he wrote some of his most famous works, including the beautiful odes:

These poems show his mature poetic style, rich imagination, and deep emotions. They are considered masterpieces of English Romantic literature.

❤️ Love Life – Keats and Fanny Brawne

Keats fell in love with Fanny Brawne, a young woman who lived near his house. Their relationship was intense and emotional. However, Keats’s financial situation and poor health created many problems. He wanted to marry her but could not do so. Still, Fanny remained an important part of his life, and many of his letters to her show his deep feelings.

😔 Health Problems and Final Days

Keats suffered from tuberculosis, a serious disease at that time. It had also taken the lives of his mother and brother. In 1820, his health became worse. Doctors advised him to travel to Italy because the warm climate might help him recover.

He went to Rome along with his friend Joseph Severn. But his condition kept declining. On 23 February 1821, John Keats died at the young age of 25. He was buried in the Protestant Cemetery in Rome. On his tombstone, the words “Here lies one whose name was writ in water” are written, symbolising his belief that he would be forgotten. But history proved him wrong.

🌟 Literary Style and Achievements

Keats believed strongly in the power of imagination and beauty. His works show:

• Rich visual imagery

• Deep emotion

• Musical language

• Love for nature

• Philosophical thoughts about life and death

One of his famous ideas is “Negative Capability,” which means accepting uncertainties and mysteries without always looking for fixed answers.

Although he died very young, he left behind a brilliant collection of poems that later gained worldwide fame. Today, Keats is considered one of the greatest poets of the Romantic era.