Meg Greenfield
Full Name and Common Aliases
Meg Greenfield was born Margaret A. Greene on March 16, 1930.
Birth and Death Dates
March 16, 1930 - May 21, 1999
Nationality and Profession(s)
American journalist and critic of politics, literature, and culture.
Early Life and Background
Meg Greenfield was born in New York City to a family that valued education. She grew up with a strong interest in reading and writing, often devouring books from her local library. Her father's profession as a salesman instilled in her the importance of clear communication and effective expression.
Greenfield attended Hunter College High School in Manhattan before pursuing higher education at Barnard College, Columbia University. After graduating in 1950 with honors, she went on to earn a master's degree in English literature from Yale University in 1952.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout her illustrious career, Greenfield held various positions as a journalist and critic:
She began writing for _The New Yorker_ in the late 1960s, becoming one of the magazine's most prominent columnists.
As an expert on politics and literature, she penned numerous articles on notable figures like LBJ and Richard Nixon, as well as literary figures such as William Faulkner and T.S. Eliot.
In addition to her writing for _The New Yorker_, Greenfield also contributed to publications like _Vogue_ and _Harper's Bazaar_.Notable Works or Actions
Some of Greenfield's most significant contributions include:
Her insightful analysis on the literary world, which not only enhanced readers' understanding but also raised awareness about issues facing writers.
Through her columns, she critiqued societal norms and the people in power, often challenging prevailing views.
In 1974, Greenfield wrote a series of articles on Richard Nixon's presidency for _The New Yorker_, contributing to the country's growing distrust of its leaders.
Impact and Legacy
Meg Greenfield left an indelible mark on American journalism. Her ability to combine literary expertise with journalistic acumen elevated the quality of writing in her field. As a result, she gained immense respect from readers, fellow writers, and notable figures:
Her critiques were known for their insight and nuance.
In 1989, Greenfield was awarded a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation "for her insightful commentary on contemporary politics, literature, and culture."
Many notable authors and journalists have cited Greenfield as an inspiration.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Meg Greenfield's sharp wit and incisive analysis earned her widespread recognition. Her ability to bridge the gap between literary criticism and journalistic writing set a new standard for writers:
Readers continue to draw upon her insights on politics, literature, and culture.
As a role model for aspiring journalists and writers, Greenfield demonstrates that a career can be built through dedication, persistence, and exceptional skill.
Her commitment to shedding light on the complexities of human experience continues to inspire new generations.
Quotes by Meg Greenfield
Since when do grown men and women, who presume to hold high government office and exercise what they think of as “moral leadership,” require ethics officers to tell them whether it is or isn’t permissible to grab the secretary’s behind or redirect public funds to their own personal advantage?
Washington, under Democrats and Republicans, has a profoundly neurotic attitude toward ‘the people.’ It is built on equal parts of suspicion, loathing, fear, respect and dependence.
Everyone seems to be running against a liar, but nobody seems to be one. Odd – I mean, the math doesn’t work out.
Everybody’s for democracy in principle. It’s only in practice that the thing gives rise to stiff objections.
There’s nothing so dangerous for manipulators as people who choose to think for themselves.
In government and out, there are vast realms of the bureaucracy dedicated to seeking more information, in perpetuity if need be, in order to avoid taking action.
There is such a thing as tempting the gods. Talking too much, too soon and with too much self-satisfaction has always seemed to me a sure way to court disaster. The forces of retribution are always listening. They never sleep.
If you were starting from scratch to invent an instrument that could impose fiscal discipline, the last one on earth you would come up with is the United States government.
Everybody's for democracy in principle. It's only in practice that the thing gives rise to stiff objections.
Everyone seems to be running against a liar, but nobody seems to be one. Odd - I mean, the math doesn't work out.