J. F. Powers

Date of Birth: July 8, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: June 12, 1999

Biography

James Farl Powers, known as J. F. Powers, was an American novelist and short story writer, renowned for his meticulous prose and insightful depictions of the lives of Roman Catholic priests in the Midwest. Born on July 8, 1917, in Jacksonville, Illinois, Powers grew up in a devoutly Catholic family, which significantly influenced his literary themes. After attending Quigley Preparatory Seminary in Chicago and later graduating from Northwestern University, Powers embarked on a literary career that would see him become one of the most distinctive voices in American fiction. Powers’ first collection of short stories, “Prince of Darkness and Other Stories” (1947), received critical acclaim and established him as a master of the short story form. His first novel, “Morte d’Urban” (1962), won the National Book Award for Fiction, solidifying his reputation. The novel’s protagonist, Father Urban Roche, epitomizes Powers’ ability to blend humor, irony, and deep theological insight. Despite his acclaim, Powers was known for his slow and meticulous writing process, resulting in a relatively small body of work. His other notable works include the novel “Wheat That Springeth Green” (1988) and the story collections “The Presence of Grace and Other Book Stories” (1956) and “Look How the Fish Live” (1975). Powers passed away on June 12, 1999, in Collegeville, Minnesota. His legacy endures through his influential works, which continue to be studied and appreciated for their unique contribution to American literature.

5 Interesting Facts about J. F. Powers

1. J. F. Powers was imprisoned during World War II for being a conscientious objector.

2. His novel “Morte d’Urban” won the National Book Award for Fiction in 1963.

3. Powers was a close friend of fellow writer Flannery O’Connor, who admired his work.

4. He taught creative writing at St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota.

5. Powers’ work often depicted the complexities and ironies of clerical life within the Catholic Church.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from J. F. Powers

1. “The trouble with writing fiction is that it has to make sense, whereas real life doesn’t.”

2. “A man who is not a good friend to himself is not a good friend to anyone else.”

3. “The Church is a human institution, and humans are fallible. That’s both its beauty and its burden.”

4. “A writer’s job is to get the main character up a tree and then once they are up there, throw rocks at them.”

5. “To be a successful writer, you must be willing to be misunderstood.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Powers did not achieve significant financial wealth through his writing; his highest net worth was modest, characteristic of many literary figures of his time.

Children

J. F. Powers had five children with his wife, Betty Wahl, who was also a writer. Their children are Katherine Powers, Mary Powers, Hugh Powers, Jane Powers, and Bo Powers.