Edward Carpenter

Edward Carpenter (1844-1929) was an English writer, social reformer, and early advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, whose work traversed poetry, prose, and political thought. Born into a well-off family in Hove, he later became a prominent figure in the socialist movement and a champion of the rights of the working class. Carpenter's writings reflect his deep compassion for humanity and a profound understanding of the complexities of love and desire. His seminal work, "Towards Democracy," is a sweeping poetic exploration of human progress and spiritual awakening, marking him as a significant voice in the literary landscape of his time.

A man of many interests, Carpenter was also deeply connected to nature, often drawing inspiration from the natural world in his writings. His essays on social and political issues, along with his pioneering thoughts on sexuality, were ahead of their time, offering insight into the struggles and triumphs of the human experience. For those intrigued by Carpenter's unique blend of poetry, philosophy, and social commentary, his works await your exploration in this app, inviting you to discover the rich tapestry of his ideas and the enduring relevance of his message.

My Days and Dreams

Read by Sue Anderson


Edward Carpenter



Hard to imagine now, but there have been times and places where just wearing sandals could get you labeled as being in rebellion against est…

Towards Democracy

Read by Sue Anderson


Edward Carpenter



“Civilization sinks and swims, but the old facts remain—the sun smiles, knowing well its strength.” Edward Carpenter (1844-1929) wrote his …

Pagan & Christian Creeds: Their Origin and Meaning

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Edward Carpenter



In this work from 1921, Carpenter analyzes the origin of Christian beliefs, arguing that they are derived from pre-Christian myths and relig…

The Intermediate Sex: A Study of Some Transitional Types of Men and Women

Read by Chuck Williamson


Edward Carpenter



Written in 1908 by socialist critic and gay rights activist Edward Carpenter, The Intermediate Sex is a thoughtful, humanizing, and frequent…

Homogenic Love and Its Place in a Free Society

Read by Jake Malizia


Edward Carpenter



This pamphlet by LGBT pioneer and philosopher Edward Carpenter was originally intended to form part of his work "Love's Coming of Age&q…

Days with Walt Whitman

Read by czandra


Edward Carpenter



"Days with Walt Whitman" is a contemplative summary of the life of Walt Whitman and the making of the poet, by one of his follower…

Civilisation: Its Cause and Cure, and Other Essays

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Edward Carpenter



This publication, by English utopian socialist Edward Carpenter, describes civilisation as a sort of disease with which humanity is afflicte…

Love's Coming-of-Age: A Series of Papers on the Relations of the Sexes

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Edward Carpenter



"The little god of Love is generally represented as a child; and rightly, perhaps, considering the erratic character of his ways among …