John Wilmot, the 2nd Earl of Rochester, was a 17th-century English poet known for his sharp wit and rebellious spirit. Born in 1647, he became famous for his satirical verses that often critiqued the social norms of his time. His lifestyle was marked by excess, and he was known for his wild parties and relationships, which reflected the hedonistic culture of the Restoration England period. Rochester's poetry, filled with humor and cynicism, often explored themes of love, lust, and the folly of human nature. Despite his controversial reputation, he is considered one of the greatest poets of the Restoration era, influencing later writers with his bold style and candid expression.