Louis Dantin
Louis Dantin, originally named Ferdinand-Joseph-Eugène Seers, was a notable Canadian writer and editor active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in the 19th century and educated at the College of Montreal, he pursued advanced studies in philosophy in Rome, where he earned his doctoral degree. After being ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in 1889, Dantin served briefly in Brussels and Paris before returning to Canada in 1894. There, he became the editor of two religious publications and engaged with the vibrant literary scene in Montreal, where he formed a significant relationship with Emile Nelligan, a prominent poet of the time.
Dantin and Nelligan collaborated on a substantial collection of poetry, highlighting their personal and professional bond. In 1903, Dantin left his religious order and moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where he worked in printing at Harvard University and mentored aspiring writers. Throughout his career, he edited various periodicals, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time. Dantin's life spanned a diverse range of experiences and influences, culminating in his death in 1945.
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Louis Dantin
Poet
- Born: November 28, 1865
- Birthplace: Beauharnois, Quebec, Canada
- Died: January 17, 1945
- Place of death: Boston, Massachusetts
Biography
Louis Dantin, a nineteenth century Canadian writer and editor, was born Ferdinand-Joseph-Eugène Seers and attended the College of Montreal. In 1883, he traveled to Rome in order to earn his doctoral degree in philosophy. In 1889, he was ordained a priest of the Roman Catholic Church. After his ordination, Louis Dantin served, for a short time, as a priest in Brussels, Belgium, and then in Paris, France.
In 1894, he returned to Canada, where served as editor of two religious publications: The Small Messenger and the Very-Saint-Sacrament. He also became active in the literary school of Montreal. During this time, he met Emile Nelligan, who was considered French Canada’s first native poet. Dantin and Emile Nelligan were involved in a homosexual relationship as well as a professional relationship. In 1904, they collaborated on a collection of over one hundred works of poetry; Dantin wrote the preface.
In 1903, Dantin left his religious order and moved to the United States, where he settled in Boston, Massachusetts. While in Boston, he took a position printing for Harvard University. He also served as a mentor for many young writers. Dantin edited many periodicals including Debates, Future of North Canada, and The Day. He died in 1945.