John Knowles Quotes
John Knowles (1926-2001) was an American novelist best known for his coming-of-age novel A Separate Peace (1959). His other works include the novels Morning in Antibes (1961), Indian Summer (1966), and Double Vision (1987). Knowles was a recipient of the William Faulkner Foundation Award for A Separ…Read More
John Knowles (1926-2001) was an American novelist best known for his coming-of-age novel A Separate Peace (1959). His other works include the novels Morning in Antibes (1961), Indian Summer (1966), and Double Vision (1987). Knowles was a recipient of the William Faulkner Foundation Award for A Separate Peace and was a member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters. He was also a contributor to The New Yorker and other magazines.Read Less
John Knowles (1926-2001) was an American novelist best known for his coming-of-age novel A Separate Peace (1959). His other works include the novels Morning in Antibes (1961), Indian Summer (1966), and Double Vision (1987). Knowles was a recipient of the William Faulkner Foundation Award for A Separate Peace and was a member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters. He was also a contributor to The New Yorker and other magazines.
John Knowles Career Highlights
- Knowles’ literary career began at Phillips Exeter Academy, where he wrote for the school’s literary magazine, The Exonian.
- In 1945, Knowles joined the U.S. Army Air Forces and served in World War II as a student pilot. This experience would later influence his writing.
- After the war, Knowles attended Yale University, where he graduated in 1949. He then worked as a journalist for the Hartford Courant before pursuing a full-time writing career.
- In 1959, Knowles published his most famous work, “A Separate Peace”, which was a critical and commercial success. The novel has been translated into several languages and is still widely read in schools and universities.
- Knowles continued to write and publish novels, including “Morning in Antibes” (1962), “Indian Summer” (1966), and “Peace Breaks Out” (1981).
- In 1987, Knowles was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters, an honor society that recognizes outstanding achievement in the arts and literature.
Key Contributions by John Knowles
- Knowles’ most significant contribution to literature is his novel “A Separate Peace”. The novel is a coming-of-age story set in a boarding school during World War II and explores themes of friendship, jealousy, and the loss of innocence.
- Knowles’ writing style is characterized by his use of vivid imagery and introspective narration. He often drew inspiration from his own life experiences, such as his time at Phillips Exeter Academy and his military service.
- Knowles’ work has been praised for its universal themes and relatable characters, making it a staple in high school and college literature courses.
- Knowles’ writing has also been noted for its exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the impact of external events on personal growth.
What Sets John Knowles Apart
- Knowles’ writing is often compared to that of his contemporary, J.D. Salinger, due to their shared themes of adolescence and the boarding school setting. However, Knowles’ writing is more introspective and less cynical than Salinger’s.
- Knowles’ use of symbolism and imagery in his writing sets him apart from other writers of his time. He often used these literary devices to convey deeper meanings and emotions in his work.
- Knowles’ ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and the impact of external events on personal growth sets him apart as a writer. His characters are relatable and his stories are timeless, making his work stand out in the literary world.
Takeaways
- John Knowles’ career highlights include his time at Phillips Exeter Academy, his military service, and his success as a novelist.
- His key contributions to literature include his most famous work, “A Separate Peace”, his unique writing style, and his exploration of universal themes.
- What sets Knowles apart as a writer is his use of symbolism and imagery, his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships, and his relatable characters.
- Takeaways from Knowles’ work include the importance of introspection, the impact of external events on personal growth, and the power of friendship and loyalty.
Other People
Writer/Author
Author
1882 - 1956
Author
· Canada
1843 - 1919
Author
1933
