How did Ezra Pound’s poetry change during his years in London?

During his 12 years in London, Ezra Pound underwent a profound transformation, evolving from a Late Victorian poet into a central figure of modernism.1

When he arrived in London, his work was characterized by the flowery, romantic language typical of the Victorian era. However, within a few years, he adopted a new, adult style that favored common speech and a "drier" intellectual tone. Influenced by his study of Anglo-Saxon poetry, classical literature, and French writers like Gustave Flaubert, his verse became marked by economy, brevity, and clarity.1

As a leader of the Imagist movement, Pound championed the use of precise visual images and direct, sparse language to capture concentrated moments of experience. This shift allowed him to address a wide range of human activities and emotions with greater efficiency. His development culminated in works like Lustra and the 18-part poem Hugh Selwyn Mauberley, which reflected his mature ability to observe society and history with a sharp, discerning intelligence.12