E. B. White
Biography of E. B. White
Full Name and Common Aliases
Elwyn Brooks White, commonly known as E. B. White, was a distinguished American writer whose works have left an indelible mark on literature. Often referred to simply as E. B. White, he is also affectionately remembered by his initials, E.B.
Birth and Death Dates
E. B. White was born on July 11, 1899, and he passed away on October 1, 1985. His life spanned much of the 20th century, a period during which he contributed significantly to American letters.
Nationality and Profession(s)
E. B. White was an American by nationality. He was a versatile writer, known primarily as an essayist, author, and editor. His career was marked by his contributions to both children's literature and adult essays, making him a beloved figure across generations.
Early Life and Background
E. B. White was born in Mount Vernon, New York, into a family that valued education and creativity. His father, Samuel Tilly White, was a piano manufacturer, and his mother, Jessie Hart White, was a homemaker. White's early years were spent in a nurturing environment that encouraged his love for reading and writing. He attended Cornell University, where he was given the nickname "Andy," a moniker that stuck with him throughout his life. At Cornell, he wrote for the university's daily newspaper, The Cornell Daily Sun, which laid the foundation for his future career in writing.
Major Accomplishments
E. B. White's career was marked by numerous accomplishments that solidified his reputation as a master of prose. After graduating from Cornell in 1921, he worked for various publications before joining The New Yorker in 1927. His association with The New Yorker was a defining period in his career, as he became one of the magazine's most influential contributors. White's essays, known for their clarity and wit, were widely read and appreciated.
In addition to his work at The New Yorker, White co-authored the English language style guide, "The Elements of Style," with William Strunk Jr. This guide has become an essential resource for writers, emphasizing the importance of clarity and brevity in writing.
Notable Works or Actions
E. B. White is perhaps best known for his contributions to children's literature. His most famous works include "Charlotte's Web," "Stuart Little," and "The Trumpet of the Swan." These books have become classics, cherished by children and adults alike for their imaginative storytelling and profound themes. "Charlotte's Web," in particular, is celebrated for its exploration of friendship, life, and death, and has been translated into numerous languages.
White's essays, collected in volumes such as "One Man's Meat" and "Essays of E. B. White," showcase his ability to capture the nuances of everyday life with humor and insight. His writing style, characterized by its simplicity and elegance, has influenced countless writers.
Impact and Legacy
E. B. White's impact on literature is profound and enduring. His children's books have been adapted into films, stage productions, and even an animated television series, ensuring that his stories continue to reach new audiences. "The Elements of Style" remains a staple in writing courses and is often cited as one of the most influential books on writing ever published.
White's essays, with their keen observations and gentle humor, continue to resonate with readers. His ability to address complex themes with simplicity and grace has made his work timeless. White's influence extends beyond literature; his advocacy for clear and concise writing has shaped the way English is taught and understood.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
E. B. White is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to articulate universal truths with simplicity and elegance. His quotes often reflect his deep understanding of human nature and his appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. Whether through the wise words of Charlotte the spider or his own musings on life, White's insights continue to inspire and comfort readers.
His legacy as a writer who could speak to both children and adults with equal effectiveness ensures that his work remains relevant. E. B. White's contributions to literature and language have left an indelible mark, making him a beloved figure whose words continue to be quoted and cherished by readers around the world.
Quotes by E. B. White
E. B. White's insights on:
What do you paint when you paint on a wall? Do you paint just anything at all? Will there be any doves, or a tree in fall? Or a hunting scene, like an English hall?
The circus comes as close to being the world in microcosm as anything I know. In a way, it puts all the rest of show business in the shade.
There is about Boston a certain reminiscent and classical tone, suggesting an authenticity and piety which few other American cities possess.
The bonus is really one of the great give-aways in business enterprise. It is the annual salve applied to the conscience of the rich and the wounds of the poor.
Prejudice is a great time saver. You can form opinions without having to get the facts.
Only by his action can a man make (himself/his life) whole . . . . You are responsible for what you have done and the people whom you have influenced.
Of course, it may be that the arts of writing and photography are antithetical. The hope and aim of a word-handler is that he maycommunicate a thought or an impression to his reader without the reader's realizing that he has been dragged through a series of hazardous or grotesque syntactical situations. In photography the goal seems to be to prove beyond a doubt that the cameraman, in his great moment of creation, was either hanging by his heels from the rafters or was wedged under the floor with his lens in a knothole.