Wally Lamb
Biography of Wally Lamb
Full Name and Common Aliases
Wally Lamb, born Walter Lamb, is an acclaimed American author known for his deeply empathetic and intricately woven narratives. While he is primarily recognized by his full name, "Wally" is the name by which he is most commonly known and celebrated in literary circles.
Birth and Death Dates
Wally Lamb was born on October 17, 1950. As of the latest available information, he is alive and continues to contribute to the literary world.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Wally Lamb is an American novelist and educator. His work as a writer has earned him a place among the most respected contemporary authors, while his role as a teacher has allowed him to influence and inspire countless students and aspiring writers.
Early Life and Background
Wally Lamb was born in Norwich, Connecticut, a small city that would later serve as a backdrop for some of his novels. Growing up in a working-class family, Lamb developed a keen sense of empathy and an understanding of the complexities of human emotions, themes that would become central to his writing. He attended the University of Connecticut, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, and later pursued a Master of Fine Arts in Writing at Vermont College. His early experiences in education and his exposure to diverse narratives during his formative years laid the foundation for his future career as a novelist and educator.
Major Accomplishments
Wally Lamb's literary career took off with the publication of his debut novel, "She's Come Undone," in 1992. The novel was selected for Oprah's Book Club in 1996, catapulting Lamb to national fame and earning him widespread critical acclaim. His second novel, "I Know This Much Is True," published in 1998, was also chosen for Oprah's Book Club, solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller. Lamb's ability to craft compelling narratives that explore the depths of human experience has earned him numerous accolades, including nominations for prestigious awards and a dedicated readership.
Notable Works or Actions
Wally Lamb is best known for his novels "She's Come Undone" and "I Know This Much Is True," both of which have been praised for their rich character development and emotional depth. "She's Come Undone" tells the story of Dolores Price, a woman navigating the challenges of life, love, and self-discovery. "I Know This Much Is True" explores the complex relationship between twin brothers, one of whom struggles with mental illness. Lamb's other notable works include "The Hour I First Believed," "Wishin' and Hopin'," and "We Are Water." In addition to his novels, Lamb has edited anthologies of writings by women incarcerated at the York Correctional Institution, showcasing his commitment to giving voice to the marginalized.
Impact and Legacy
Wally Lamb's impact on literature is profound, with his novels often serving as a mirror to the human condition. His exploration of themes such as mental illness, trauma, and redemption resonates with readers, offering both solace and insight. Lamb's work in education, particularly his involvement with incarcerated women, highlights his dedication to using literature as a tool for healing and empowerment. His legacy is one of compassion, understanding, and a deep commitment to storytelling that transcends boundaries.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Wally Lamb is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to articulate the intricacies of human emotions and relationships. His novels are rich with quotable passages that capture the essence of his characters' struggles and triumphs. Readers and critics alike are drawn to his work for its authenticity and emotional resonance. Lamb's quotes often reflect his belief in the power of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding, making his words timeless and universally relevant. His contributions to literature and his efforts to amplify marginalized voices ensure that he remains a significant figure in contemporary American literature.
Quotes by Wally Lamb
Wally Lamb's insights on:
I kept changing the station, over and over around the dial, but all I got were those two channels, or snow. I had spent half my life watching TV. I thought again about the paperweight. I’d had it less than a week when I shook too hard and accidentally sent it flying across my bedroom where it hit the floor and cracked. Leaked, became useless. At the time, it was my biggest tragedy – breaking that paperweight.
Jack kept refilling my mother’s glass with the wine she’d brought. With each sip, she acted more and more like Marilyn Monroe. Grandma was so taken with her special meal, she seemed hardly to notice Ma’s behavior. She even reluctantly accepted a glass of wine herself, and went so far as to wet her lips at the rim.
It’s just a coincidence, I guess, but just the day before at the dry cleaner’s, one of our customers, Mrs. Chudy, said to me- I forget what we were even talking about, but she said, “My dear, there are no coincidences. That’s just God’s way of remaining anonymous.” And I was like, to myself not to her, yeah? How do you know? But hey, maybe she’s right.
Of course, all of the coolest icons overdosed and died years ago, which is just as well. How depressing would it be to see a gray-haired Jimi Hendrix wearing a cardigan sweater and reminiscing about the soundtrack of the Summer of Love?
Only in the most literal sense are we born on the day we leave our mother’s womb. In the larger, truer sense, we are born of the past – connected to its fluidity, both genetically and experientially.
Maybe you inherited craziness like you did brown eyes or frizzy hair, I thought. Maybe you just went nuts and did that sort of thing if your mother got a divorce and a new boyfriend.
It is important for children to learn that they are the sum of those who have come before them.
I’ll give you what I learned from all this,” he said. “Accept what people offer. Drink their milkshakes. Take their love.