P. G. Wodehouse
Biography of P. G. Wodehouse
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Sir Pelham Grenville Wodehouse
Common Aliases: P. G. Wodehouse, Plum
Birth and Death Dates
Born: October 15, 1881
Died: February 14, 1975
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: British
Profession(s): Novelist, Playwright, Lyricist, Humorist
Early Life and Background
Pelham Grenville Wodehouse, affectionately known as "Plum" to his friends and family, was born in Guildford, Surrey, England. He was the third of four sons in a family with a strong tradition of public service. His father, Henry Ernest Wodehouse, was a British judge in Hong Kong, which meant that young Pelham spent much of his early childhood separated from his parents, living with various relatives in England. This experience of being shuffled between homes is often reflected in the whimsical and detached tone of his later works.
Wodehouse attended Dulwich College, a prestigious public school in London, where he excelled academically and developed a passion for writing. It was here that he began to hone his craft, contributing to the school magazine and developing a keen sense of humor that would become his trademark. Despite his academic prowess, financial constraints prevented him from attending university, leading him to pursue a career in banking, which he found utterly uninspiring.
Major Accomplishments
Wodehouse's literary career began in earnest when he started writing for various magazines and newspapers. His first novel, "The Pothunters," was published in 1902, marking the beginning of a prolific writing career that spanned over seven decades. Wodehouse's major accomplishments include the creation of beloved characters such as the bumbling Bertie Wooster and his unflappable valet, Jeeves, as well as the eccentric Lord Emsworth of Blandings Castle.
In addition to his novels and short stories, Wodehouse was a successful playwright and lyricist. He collaborated with renowned composers such as Jerome Kern and George Gershwin, contributing to the success of several Broadway musicals. His work in musical theater earned him a reputation as a master of wit and wordplay, further cementing his status as a literary icon.
Notable Works or Actions
Wodehouse's body of work is vast, with over 90 books to his name. Among his most notable works are the "Jeeves and Wooster" series, which includes classics like "The Inimitable Jeeves" and "Right Ho, Jeeves." These stories, characterized by their humor and clever dialogue, have delighted readers for generations. The "Blandings Castle" series, featuring the amiable but absent-minded Lord Emsworth, is another highlight of his oeuvre.
Wodehouse's ability to craft engaging and humorous narratives extended beyond the written word. His contributions to musical theater, including the lyrics for songs such as "Bill" from the musical "Show Boat," showcase his versatility and talent as a writer.
Impact and Legacy
P. G. Wodehouse's impact on literature and popular culture is profound. His unique style, characterized by its light-heartedness and wit, has influenced countless writers and comedians. Wodehouse's works have been adapted into numerous films, television series, and stage productions, ensuring that his characters and stories continue to entertain new audiences.
Despite a controversial period during World War II, when he was criticized for making broadcasts from Nazi Germany, Wodehouse's reputation as a master humorist remained largely intact. In 1975, shortly before his death, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, a testament to his enduring contribution to English literature.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
P. G. Wodehouse is widely quoted and remembered for his unparalleled ability to craft humorous and engaging stories. His sharp wit and clever use of language have made his works timeless, appealing to readers of all ages. Wodehouse's characters, particularly the iconic duo of Jeeves and Wooster, have become cultural touchstones, embodying the quintessential British humor that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Wodehouse's quotes, often characterized by their humor and insight, are frequently cited for their ability to capture the absurdities of life with elegance and charm. His legacy as one of the greatest humorists of the 20th century is secure, and his works remain a source of joy and inspiration for readers and writers alike.
Quotes by P. G. Wodehouse
P. G. Wodehouse's insights on:
I believe, if you played your cards right, you could still marry her, Pongo.’ ‘Aren’t you overlooking the trifling fact that I happen to be engaged to Hermione?’ ‘Slide out of it.’ ‘Ha!’ ‘It is what your best friends would advise. You are a moody, introspective young man, all too prone to look on the dark side of things. I shall never forget you that day at the dog races. Sombre is the only word to describe your attitude as the cop’s fingers closed on your coat collar. You.
In the past she had been compelled to describe this man as a hunk of cheese and to express the opinion that his crookedness was such as to enable him to hide at will behind a spiral staircase; but now, in the joy of this unexpected reunion, all these harsh views were forgotten.
I never was interested in politics. I’m quite unable to work up any kind of belligerent feeling. Just as I’m about to feel belligerent about some country I meet a decent sort of chap. We go out together and lose any fighting thoughts or feelings.
Once in every few publishing seasons there is an Event. For no apparent reason, the great heart of the Public gives a startled jump, and the public’s great purse is emptied to secure copies of some novel which has stolen into the world without advance advertising and whose only claim to recognition is that The Licensed Victuallers’ Gazette has stated in a two-line review that it is ‘readable’.
Mr Keeble stopped after making his announcement, and had to rattle his keys in his pocket in order to acquire the necessary courage to continue.
I’m not absolutely certain of the facts, but I rather fancy it’s Shakespeare who says that it’s always just when a fellow is feeling particularly braced with things in general that Fate sneaks up behind him with the bit of lead piping.
You see, the catch about portrait-painting – I’ve looked into the thing a bit – is that you can’t start painting portraits till people come along and ask you to, and they won’t come and ask you to until you’ve painted a lot first.
New York is an egotist. It will suffer no divided attention. “Look at me!” says the voice of the city imperiously, and its children obey. It snatches their thoughts from their inner griefs, and concentrates them on the pageant that rolls unceasingly from one end of the island to the other. One may despair in New York, but it is difficult to brood on the past; for New York is the City of the Present, the City of Things that are Going On.