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Christopher Fry


Full Name and Common Aliases


Christopher Fry was born as Charles Fry on May 18, 1907, in Bristol, England. He is commonly known by his pen name, Christopher Fry.

Birth and Death Dates


May 18, 1907 - June 30, 2005

Nationality and Profession(s)


British playwright, poet, and translator

Early Life and Background


Christopher Fry was born into a family of modest means. His father, also named Charles, was an accountant, and his mother, Mabel, was a schoolteacher. Fry's early life was marked by a love for literature and the arts, which he cultivated through private education at Bristol Grammar School. He later attended Cambridge University, where he studied English Literature.

Major Accomplishments


Christopher Fry's breakthrough as a playwright came with his 1941 play "A Phoenix Too Frequent," but it was his subsequent works that truly showcased his talents. His most notable plays include:

"The Lady's Not for Burning" (1948): A critically acclaimed drama that explores the complexities of human relationships and morality.
"Venus Observed" (1950): A satirical comedy that pokes fun at societal norms and conventions.

Fry was not only a prolific playwright but also an accomplished poet. His poetry collections, such as "A Lamp for Each Time" (1937), showcased his unique voice and perspective.

Notable Works or Actions


Christopher Fry's literary career spanned over six decades. Some of his notable works include:

Translations: Fry was known for his translations of classical Greek plays, including Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex."
Collaborations: He worked closely with director Tyrone Guthrie on several productions, including the famous 1948 production of "The Lady's Not for Burning."

Impact and Legacy


Christopher Fry's contributions to British theatre are immeasurable. His plays tackled complex themes and issues, often sparking important conversations about morality, relationships, and societal norms.

Fry's unique voice as a playwright and poet has left an indelible mark on the literary world. His legacy extends beyond his works themselves, influencing generations of writers and artists to explore new ways of storytelling.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Christopher Fry is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful commentary on human nature and society. His plays continue to be performed and studied worldwide, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and morality.

Quotes by Christopher Fry

Christopher Fry's insights on:

I want to look at life - at the commonplaces of existence - as if we had just turned a corner and run into it for the first time.
"
I want to look at life - at the commonplaces of existence - as if we had just turned a corner and run into it for the first time.
We are all of us lost. The best we can do is make whatever we’re lost in as much like home as we can.
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We are all of us lost. The best we can do is make whatever we’re lost in as much like home as we can.
Am I supposed to be merely exercising my tongue Or am I being listened to?
"
Am I supposed to be merely exercising my tongue Or am I being listened to?
Thomas, only another Fifty years or so and then I promise to let you go.
"
Thomas, only another Fifty years or so and then I promise to let you go.
It’s always our touches of vanity that manage to betray us.
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It’s always our touches of vanity that manage to betray us.
You have cut yourself a shape on the air, which may be My scar.
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You have cut yourself a shape on the air, which may be My scar.
My trouble is I’m the sort of writer who only finds out what he’s getting at by the time he’s got to the end of it.
"
My trouble is I’m the sort of writer who only finds out what he’s getting at by the time he’s got to the end of it.
The trees were as bright as a shower of broken glass.
"
The trees were as bright as a shower of broken glass.
Day’s work is still to do, Whatever the day’s doom.
"
Day’s work is still to do, Whatever the day’s doom.
An artist’s sensitivity to criticism is, at least in part, an effort to keep unimpaired the zest, or confidence, or arrogance, which he needs to make creation possible; or an instinct to climb through his problems in his own way as he should, and must.
"
An artist’s sensitivity to criticism is, at least in part, an effort to keep unimpaired the zest, or confidence, or arrogance, which he needs to make creation possible; or an instinct to climb through his problems in his own way as he should, and must.
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