GUDMUNDSSON, TMAS

born Jan. 6, 1901, Efri-Br, Ice. died Nov. 14, 1983, Reykjavk poet best known for introducing the city as a subject in Icelandic poetry. Gudmundsson, who was born in the countryside, graduated in law from the University of Iceland in Reykjavk and subsequently became a civil servant in 1928. His first work, Vid sundin bl (1924; Beside the Blue Waters), caused no great stir but revealed his control of poetic form and an intelligent, thoughtful, slightly nostalgic voice. His next publication, Fagra verld (1933; The Fair World), established him as an outstanding poet; it won immediate attention for its appreciation of the city and urban life. Gudmundsson was adopted as poet laureate of the city. Travel in the Mediterranean gave him a new stimulus, apparent in Stjrnur vorsins (1940; Stars of Spring). After 1943 he devoted himself to writing. From 1942 to 1955 he edited a literary magazine, Helgafell, and from 1956 to 1959 Ntt Helgafell. During this period Fljtid helga (1950; The Holy River) was published. It addressed many of the social issues that were brought to light by World War II and revealed Gudmundsson as a mature philosopher, though his light touch and humour remained. An edition of his collected poems was published in 1953. His later works include Heim til thn, sland (1977; Home to You, Iceland), containing personal reflections on life and death, as well as several poems written for specific occasions. In addition to writing poetry, Gudmundsson translated works in German and Italian into Icelandic. Many of his own poems are in translation in the Scandinavian languages, French, German, and English.