Joseph Hergesheimer

Joseph Hergesheimer Biography

Joseph Hergesheimer (February 15, 1880 – April 25, 1954) was an American novelist celebrated for his vivid portrayals of the decadent and sophisticated lives of the wealthy during the early 20th century. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Hergesheimer initially pursued painting at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts but eventually turned to writing, where he found his true calling.

He published his first novel, The Lay Anthony, in 1914, marking the beginning of a prolific literary career. His subsequent novel, The Three Black Pennys (1917), chronicles three generations of Pennsylvania ironmasters, showcasing his rich descriptive style, often referred to as "aestheticism." This work was notably the first original American novel published by Alfred A. Knopf.

Hergesheimer gained critical acclaim with novels like Java Head (1919), which explores themes of miscegenation within a New England sea-trading family, and Linda Condon (1919), a character study of an emotionally reserved woman. His ornate and highly descriptive prose was well-received during the 1920s, with a 1922 poll in Literary Digest naming him the "most important American writer" of the time.

However, as literary tastes shifted in the 1930s towards more concise and direct styles, Hergesheimer's popularity declined. His last novel, The Foolscap Rose, was published in 1934. Despite the ebb in his literary prominence, his works, characterized by their lush descriptions and psychological depth, continue to be studied for their portrayal of early 20th-century American society.

Joseph Hergesheimer passed away on April 25, 1954, in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, leaving behind a legacy as a distinctive voice in American literature.

Trivia About Joseph Hergesheimer

• Hergesheimer's short story "Tol'able David" was adapted into a successful silent film in 1921.
• He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1921.
• His novel Java Head was adapted into films twice, in 1923 and 1934.
• Hergesheimer's descriptive writing style was often compared to that of painter John Singer Sargent.

Famous Quotes by Joseph Hergesheimer

• "Art is the stored honey of the human soul, gathered on wings of misery and travail."
• "The primary function of art is not to portray but to evoke."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Joseph Hergesheimer?

Joseph Hergesheimer was an American novelist known for his naturalistic and richly descriptive novels depicting the lives of the affluent in the early 20th century.

What are some of his notable works?

Some of Hergesheimer's notable works include The Three Black Pennys (1917), Java Head (1919), and Linda Condon (1919).

What was his writing style?

Hergesheimer's writing style, often termed "aestheticism," is characterized by elaborate and highly descriptive prose, focusing on the opulent lives of his characters.

Related Literary Movements

Joseph Hergesheimer's work is associated with the aesthetic movement of the early 20th century, emphasizing elaborate descriptive prose and explorations of upper-class society. His novels reflect the transition from romanticism to modernism in American literature.

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