Cowper, William

William Cowper, 1731-1800, was distinguished for his original poetry and hymns, and translations of classical and modern authors. He was a forerunner of the English Romantic movement, and strongly influenced Wordsworth. His hymns "O For a Closer Walk With God," "There is a Fountain Filled With Blood" and "God Moves in a Mysterious Way" will be found in nearly all English-language hymnals. Although although kept from society or public activity by severe depression, throughout his life he maintained a circle of close friends (including the slave-trader turned curate, John Newton) by whom he was greatly loved and respected.