Pamela Hansford Johnson
Pamela Hansford Johnson
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Pamela Hansford Johnson was a British novelist, poet, essayist, and playwright who wrote under her own name as well as the pseudonyms Paul Edwards and Felix Glink.
#### Birth and Death Dates
Born on June 3, 1918, in Leeds, England. She passed away on September 6, 1981, at the age of 63.
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
British novelist, poet, essayist, playwright, and feminist writer.
Early Life and Background
Pamela Hansford Johnson was born to a family of modest means in Leeds, England. Her early life was marked by a love for reading and writing, encouraged by her parents who recognized the importance of literature. She grew up in a household that valued education, and this foundation would serve as a driving force behind her future accomplishments.
Johnson's interest in writing led her to study English at St Anne's College, Oxford University, where she was exposed to various literary movements, including Modernism and Surrealism. During her time at Oxford, she became part of a circle that included notable writers such as Elizabeth Bowen and Graham Greene.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout her career, Johnson made significant contributions to literature in multiple genres:
As a novelist, she is best known for her introspective and psychologically complex works, which often explored themes of love, relationships, and the human condition.
Her poetry collection, _The Unfortunates_, showcases her skill in crafting lyrical and accessible verse that captures the essence of life's experiences.
Johnson was also a skilled essayist, offering insights into literature, culture, and society through her engaging non-fiction pieces.Notable Works or Actions
Some of Pamela Hansford Johnson's notable works include:
_An Evening Without Angels_ (1961): A novel that explores the complexities of human relationships.
_A Place to Stand_ (1964): A collection of essays that demonstrate her ability to engage with various topics, from literature to social issues.
_The Unfortunates_ (1969): Her poetry collection, which received critical acclaim for its nuanced exploration of human emotions.
Impact and Legacy
Pamela Hansford Johnson's impact on literature extends beyond her own work. She was a pioneer in promoting feminist causes and raising awareness about social issues through her writing. Her novels often featured strong female characters navigating complex relationships, challenging societal norms, and pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in literary representation.
Johnson's legacy can be seen in the many authors who have been influenced by her work, including notable writers such as Margaret Drabble and Ian McEwan. Her commitment to exploring the human condition has left a lasting impression on readers and writers alike.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Pamela Hansford Johnson's quotes and writings are widely remembered for their thought-provoking insights into love, relationships, and the human experience. Her ability to craft engaging narratives that capture the complexities of life has made her a beloved author among readers.
Quotes by Pamela Hansford Johnson

We demand that people should be true to the pictures we have of them, no matter how repulsive those pictures may be: we prefer the true portrait in all its homogeneity, to one with a detail added which refuses to fit in.

You slam a politician, you make out he’s the devil, with horns and hoofs. But his wife loves him, and so did all his mistresses.

I have always wanted to write in such a way that will make people think, Why, I’ve always thought that but never found the words for it.

I have always wanted to write in such a way that will make people think, Why, I've always thought that but never found the words for it.

There are few things more disturbing than to find, in somebody we detest, a moral quality which seems to us demonstrably superior to anything we ourselves possess. It augurs not merely an unfairness on the part of creation, but a lack of artistic judgment. Sainthood is acceptable only in saints.

the most deeply moving element in the contemplation of beauty is the element of loss. We desire to hold; but the sunset melts into the night, and the secret of the painting on the wall can never be the secret of the buyer.

You slam a politician, you make out he's the devil, with horns and hoofs. But his wife loves him, and so did all his mistresses.

I hated the bangs in the war: I always felt a silent war would be more tolerable.

Be fond of the man who jests at his scars, if you like; but never believe he is being on the level with you.
