15 Fascinating Facts About William Faulkner

Introduction:

William Faulkner is considered one of the greatest American writers of all time, known for his intricate storytelling and complex characters. His works have left a lasting impact on literature, and his unique writing style continues to captivate readers around the world. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about William Faulkner that shed light on the man behind the words.

Fact 1: Faulkner’s Real Name

Born on September 25, 1897, in New Albany, Mississippi, William Faulkner’s real name was actually William Cuthbert Falkner. He later changed the spelling of his last name to Faulkner, dropping the “u.”

Fact 2: Pulitzer Prizes

Faulkner was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction twice in his career. The first was in 1955 for his novel “A Fable,” and the second was posthumously in 1963 for “The Reivers.”

Fact 3: Nobel Prize in Literature

In 1949, Faulkner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his powerful and artistically unique contribution to the modern American novel.

Fact 4: Faulkner’s Military Service

During World War I, Faulkner attempted to enlist in the US Army but was rejected due to his height. He later joined the British Royal Flying Corps and served as a pilot until the end of the war.

Fact 5: Faulkner and Hollywood

Faulkner had a brief but impactful tenure in Hollywood as a screenwriter. He contributed to the scripts of notable films such as “To Have and Have Not” and “The Big Sleep.”

Fact 6: “The Sound and the Fury”

One of Faulkner’s most famous novels, “The Sound and the Fury,” was initially met with mixed reviews but has since become a staple of American literature. The novel is noted for its experimental narrative techniques and multiple perspectives.

Fact 7: Faulkner’s Writing Routine

Faulkner was known for his unique writing routine, which included writing for hours at a time while lying on his stomach in bed. He often wrote late at night and believed that he did his best work in the early hours of the morning.

Fact 8: Faulkner’s Literary Influences

Faulkner cited several literary influences throughout his career, including James Joyce, Joseph Conrad, and Emily Bronte. These authors helped shape his writing style and approach to storytelling.

Fact 9: Yoknapatawpha County

Many of Faulkner’s novels are set in the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, which is based on his hometown of Oxford, Mississippi. This fictional county served as the backdrop for many of Faulkner’s most famous works.

Fact 10: Faulkner’s Personal Life

Faulkner had a tumultuous personal life, marked by alcoholism and multiple failed relationships. Despite these struggles, he remained dedicated to his craft and continued to produce acclaimed works throughout his life.

Fact 11: “As I Lay Dying”

Another one of Faulkner’s seminal works, “As I Lay Dying,” is known for its fragmented narrative and multiple perspectives. The novel follows the Bundren family as they journey to bury their matriarch, Addie Bundren.

Fact 12: Faulkner’s Southern Roots

Faulkner’s deep connection to the American South is evident in his work, which often explores themes of race, class, and tradition. His portrayal of the South has been both celebrated and critiqued for its complexity and honesty.

Fact 13: Faulkner’s Honorary Degrees

Over the course of his career, Faulkner received multiple honorary degrees from prestigious universities, including the University of Oxford and the University of Virginia. These recognitions underscored his status as a literary giant.

Fact 14: Faulkner’s Impact on Modern Literature

Faulkner’s influence on modern literature cannot be overstated. His innovative narrative techniques and exploration of complex themes have inspired generations of writers to push the boundaries of storytelling.

Fact 15: Legacy of William Faulkner

William Faulkner’s legacy endures to this day, with his works continuing to be studied and celebrated by literary scholars and readers alike. His contributions to American literature have solidified his place as a master storyteller and a true titan of the written word.

Conclusion

In conclusion, William Faulkner’s life and work offer a rich tapestry of stories and insights that continue to captivate audiences around the world. From his groundbreaking narrative techniques to his deep connection to the American South, Faulkner’s legacy remains as vibrant and compelling as ever. As we reflect on these 15 fascinating facts about William Faulkner, we are reminded of the enduring power of storytelling and the enduring impact of one of literature’s greatest figures.