J. B. Priestley
J.B. Priestley: A Prolific Playwright, Novelist, and Philosopher
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
John Boynton Priestley was commonly known as J.B. Priestley.
#### Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 13, 1894, in Bradford, England; died on August 14, 1984, at the age of 89.
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
British novelist, playwright, journalist, social commentator, and philosopher.
Early Life and Background
J.B. Priestley's early life was marked by a strong connection to his West Yorkshire roots. His father was a draper's assistant, and the family lived in a modest home. Priestley's love for literature began at an early age, influenced by his mother's stories about their family's history. He attended Belle Vue School in Bradford before moving on to the local Grammar School.
During World War I, Priestley joined the British Army and served as a dispatch runner on the Western Front. This experience would later influence many of his works, particularly in terms of social commentary and critiques of modern society. After the war, he went on to study English literature at Cambridge University.
Major Accomplishments
Priestley's writing career spanned over six decades, during which he produced numerous plays, novels, essays, and philosophical writings. His notable accomplishments include:
Plays: 'The Good Companions,' 'I Have Been Here Before,' and 'An Inspector Calls' are among his most famous works.
Novels: 'Angel Pavement,' 'The Good Companions,' and 'Saturn Over the Water' showcase his versatility as a novelist.
Essay collections: Works like 'English Journey' (1934) and 'Postscripts' (1962) demonstrate his keen observation of society.Notable Works or Actions
Priestley's most notable works often tackled themes of social justice, politics, and the human condition. Some of his most famous plays include:
An Inspector Calls: A classic morality play that questions the responsibility of individuals towards their community.
* I Have Been Here Before: An absurdist comedy that explores the nature of reality and identity.
Impact and Legacy
J.B. Priestley's impact on 20th-century literature is undeniable. His works often probed the complexities of human relationships, social hierarchy, and the consequences of individual actions. As a philosopher, he was particularly interested in exploring the relationship between individuals and society.
Priestley's commitment to social justice and his critique of modern society have influenced many writers, including Samuel Beckett and Harold Pinter. His philosophical ideas on the nature of reality and identity continue to be discussed among scholars today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
J.B. Priestley's quotes and writings are widely remembered for their thought-provoking insights into human nature, society, and politics. His sharp observations on modern life, coupled with his philosophical ideas, have made him a beloved figure in literary circles.
Quotes by J. B. Priestley
J. B. Priestley's insights on:
The greater part of critics are parasites, who, if nothing had been written, would find nothing to write.
It is good fiction, so largely ignored now, that brings us so much closer to the real facts.
Write as often as possible, not with the idea at once of getting into print, but as if you were learning an instrument.
To say that these men paid their shillings to watch twenty-two hirelings kick a ball is merely to say that a violin is wood and catgut, that Hamlet is so much paper and ink.
One of the delights beyond the grasp of youth is that of Not Going. Not to have an invitation for the dance, the party, the picnic, the excursion is to be diminished. To have an invitation and then not to be able to go -- oh cursed spite! Now I do not care the rottenest fig whether I receive an invitation or not. After years of illusion, I finally decided I was missing nothing by Not Going. I no longer care whether I am missing anything or not.
The most lasting reputation I have is for an almost ferocious aggressiveness, when in fact I am amiable, indulgent, affectionate, shy and rather timid at heart.