Anthony Powell Quotes

A collection of quotes by Anthony Powell.

Anthony Powell (1905-2000) was an acclaimed English novelist and literary critic. He was born in London and educated at Eton College and Balliol College, Oxford. Powell is best known for his twelve-volume novel sequence, "A Dance to the Music of Time," which is widely regarded as his masterpiece.

Powell's writing career began in the 1930s, and he quickly gained recognition as a perceptive observer of English society. His novels often focused on the lives of the British upper class, depicting their social rituals, relationships, and aspirations. He skillfully captured the nuances of the interwar and post-war periods, offering a panoramic view of an evolving society over several decades.

The "A Dance to the Music of Time" series, published between 1951 and 1975, brought Powell widespread acclaim. The work follows the lives of a group of characters navigating the shifting landscape of British society from the 1920s to the 1970s. With its rich characterizations, intricate plotlines, and acute social commentary, the series solidified Powell's place as one of the most notable English novelists of his time.

In addition to his fiction, Anthony Powell also wrote widely on literary matters, working as a literary critic and editor for various publications. He was renowned for his erudition and insightful analysis of both contemporary and classic literature. Powell was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 1963 and was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1988 for his contributions to literature.

Anthony Powell's legacy as a novelist and critic continues to endure, with his work celebrated for its wit, depth, and artistry. His keen observations of human behavior and his ability to capture the essence of a particular era have made him an important figure in English literature.