The Vicar of Morwenstow: Being a Life of Robert Stephen Hawker, M.A.

"The Vicar of Morwenstow: Being a Life of Robert Stephen Hawker, M.A." by S. Baring-Gould is a 19th-century biography that captures the extraordinary existence of Robert Stephen Hawker, a vicar distinguished by his strong faith and unique personality. The biography traces Hawker's youth—from his playful early years to his literary endeavors—and his eventual calling as a vicar in Morwenstow, a region abundant in custom and legend. The biography starts by detailing Hawker's initial years, showing the profound impact of his devout and eccentric grandfather, Dr. Jacob Hawker. Despite attending different schools, the young Robert exhibited a defiant attitude, memorably fleeing one after only a single night, emphasizing his fondness for mischief. The beginning part establishes a tone that depicts Hawker's life as a renowned poet and an interesting person. It includes light-hearted tales that hint at the adventures and obstacles he would face as he strived to satisfy both his clerical obligations and express life's beauty and trials through poetry.