Budd Schulberg
Full Name and Common Aliases
Budd Schulberg
Born Samuel Schulberg
Also known as Budd Schulberg, the screenwriter's most well-known pen name.
Birth and Death Dates
May 27, 1914 – August 5, 2014
Nationality and Profession(s)
American novelist, playwright, journalist, screenwriter, and film director. His writing often dealt with themes of human nature, social justice, and the relationship between individuals and society.
Early Life and Background
Budd Schulberg was born in New York City to a prominent family of Jewish intellectuals. His father, B.P. Schulberg, was an early pioneer of baseball who went on to become a major Hollywood producer. Budd's mother, Adeline Schulberg, came from a wealthy family with strong social connections in New York.
Schulberg developed an interest in writing at an early age and began contributing short stories to various publications while still in his teens. He attended Harvard University but dropped out to pursue a career in journalism and writing. During the 1930s, Schulberg worked as a reporter for the _New York Post_ and later became involved with the Screen Writers Guild.
Major Accomplishments
Schulberg's most notable work is arguably "What Makes Sammy Run?" (1941), a novel that explores the darker side of American capitalism. The book was adapted into a Broadway play in 1949, starring Sidney Lumet as the protagonist. Schulberg also wrote the screenplay for _On the Waterfront_ (1954), which won him an Academy Award.
Notable Works or Actions
Schulberg's writing often explored themes of human nature and the complexities of relationships between individuals and society. Some other notable works include:
"They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" (1935) - a novel about two young people who participate in a marathon dance competition.
"The Disenchanted" (1950) - a novel that explores the lives of several disillusioned writers living in New York City during the 1920s and 1930s.
Impact and Legacy
Schulberg's contributions to American literature have had a lasting impact on many aspects of society. His works often dealt with themes relevant to contemporary social issues, providing insights into human nature that remain valuable today.
Schulberg was also an outspoken advocate for the rights of screenwriters and labor unions throughout his career. He served as president of the Screen Writers Guild from 1947-1951 and continued to be involved in writers' organizations until his passing in 2014.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Schulberg's writing often spoke directly to fundamental aspects of human nature, making his works relatable and impactful. His exploration of social justice themes helped shape public perception on issues that continue to affect society today.
Quotes by Budd Schulberg
You either go along with the system - conform to what is expected to be a hit - or you have very tough going.
We only hate the results of people. But people, Henry, aren’t just results. They’re a process.
There seem to be two kinds of self-conscious self-made men, those who like to dwell on the patriotic details of their ascent from newsboy or shoe-shiner at two bucks and peanuts a week and those who take every new level as if it were the only one they ever knew, rushing ahead so fast they are ashamed, afraid to look back and see where they’ve come from. One is a bore and the other is a heel.
You’re physically incapable of having friends. All you can ever have are enemies and stooges.
He was one of those magnificent fakes who could overwhelm himself with his own sincerity.
It made me uncomfortable. I guess I’ve always been afraid of people who can be agile without grace.