John Gardner Quotes

A collection of quotes by John Gardner.

John Gardner (1933-1982) was an American novelist, essayist, and literary critic best known for his work in revitalizing the genre of fiction. Born on July 21, 1933, in Batavia, New York, Gardner had a passion for literature from a young age. He received his education at various institutions, including Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Iowa.

Gardner's writing career took off with the publication of his novel, "The Resurrection," in 1966. However, it was his acclaimed novel "Grendel," published in 1971, that established him as a prominent literary figure. "Grendel" offers a unique perspective on the Beowulf legend, presenting the story from the perspective of the monster. The novel received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative and philosophical ideas.

Throughout his career, Gardner explored various themes in his novels, often delving into the complexities of morality, ethics, and the human condition. His writing style was characterized by its psychological depth and philosophical underpinnings.

In addition to his fiction work, Gardner also made significant contributions as a literary critic. He authored several influential books on the craft of writing, including "The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers," which has since become a renowned resource for aspiring authors.

Tragically, John Gardner's life was cut short when he died in a motorcycle accident on September 14, 1982, at the age of 49. Despite his untimely death, his literary contributions continue to inspire and influence writers and readers worldwide.