Albert Bigelow Paine
1861 -1937
Albert Bigelow Paine Biography
Albert Bigelow Paine (July 10, 1861 – April 9, 1937) was an American author, biographer, and literary critic, best known for his close association with Mark Twain. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Paine moved with his family to Bentonsport, Iowa, when he was one year old, and later to Xenia, Illinois, where he received his schooling. At the age of 20, he moved to St. Louis, where he trained as a photographer and became a dealer in photographic supplies in Fort Scott, Kansas. In 1895, Paine sold his business to pursue writing full-time, relocating to New York City.
Paine's most notable work is his comprehensive biography, Mark Twain: A Biography (1912), a four-volume set that remains a significant resource on Twain's life. He served as Twain's personal secretary and literary executor, assisting in the publication of several posthumous works, including Twain's autobiography. Paine also wrote biographies of other notable figures, such as Th. Nast: His Period and His Pictures (1904) and Life and Lillian Gish (1932).
In addition to biographies, Paine authored children's books, including The Arkansaw Bear (1898) and the Hollow Tree series, as well as travel books like The Tent Dwellers (1908). He spent several years in Europe, particularly France, where his works on Joan of Arc were well received, earning him the title of Chevalier in the Légion d'honneur by the French government. Paine passed away on April 9, 1937, in New Smyrna, Florida.
Trivia About Albert Bigelow Paine
- Paine was a member of the Pulitzer Prize Committee.
- He wrote in various genres, including fiction, humor, and verse.
- Paine's home in Xenia, Illinois, where he spent his early years, is still standing.
- He was awarded the title of Chevalier in the French Légion d'honneur for his works on Joan of Arc.
Famous Quotes by Albert Bigelow Paine
- "What a wee little part of a person's life are his acts and his words!"
- "The first thing to learn in life is what to do with a minute."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Albert Bigelow Paine?
Albert Bigelow Paine was an American author and biographer, best known for his close association with Mark Twain and his comprehensive biography of the author.
What are some of Paine's notable works?
Paine's notable works include Mark Twain: A Biography, Th. Nast: His Period and His Pictures, and children's books like The Arkansaw Bear and the Hollow Tree series.
What was Paine's relationship with Mark Twain?
Paine served as Mark Twain's personal secretary and literary executor, assisting in the publication of several of Twain's posthumous works.
Related Literary Movements
Albert Bigelow Paine was associated with the late 19th and early 20th-century American literary scene, contributing significantly to biographical literature and children's fiction. His works reflect the literary trends of realism and regionalism of his time.
Albert Bigelow Paine books
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