edwin atherstone was born in nottingham on 17 april 1788. he was one of fifteenth children of hugh atherstone and ann green. he learned in yorkshire at fulneck moravian school. he lived with mary wainwright pearson. they were never married, but had four children, three daughters and a son. atherstone taught music at school in taunton. he also collected paintings. the poet died in bath on 29 january.