Date of Birth: April 23, 1926
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: September 11, 2017
Biography
James Patrick Donleavy, known as J. P. Donleavy, was an Irish-American novelist, playwright, and dramatist renowned for his distinctive style and wry humor. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he moved to Ireland after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Donleavy is best known for his debut novel, “The Ginger Man,” which was published in 1955 and has since become a cult classic. The novel, set in Dublin, follows the exploits of a young American named Sebastian Dangerfield, blending dark comedy with poignant observations about post-war life. Donleavy’s literary career spanned over six decades, during which he published numerous novels, short stories, and plays. His works often explore themes of existential angst, social disintegration, and the pursuit of pleasure, all delivered with a unique blend of humor and pathos. Beyond his writing, Donleavy was also an accomplished painter and a keen observer of human nature. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of influential and enduring literary works.
5 Interesting Facts about J. P. Donleavy
1. J. P. Donleavy’s debut novel, “The Ginger Man,” was initially banned in Ireland and the United States due to its explicit content.
2. Donleavy took Irish citizenship in 1967, having lived in Ireland for many years.
3. His novel “The Ginger Man” was named one of the 100 best novels of the 20th century by the Modern Library.
4. Donleavy was also an accomplished painter, and his works have been exhibited in galleries in Dublin and London.
5. He had a long-standing legal battle with his publisher over the rights to “The Ginger Man,” which he eventually won.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from J. P. Donleavy
1. “Writing is turning one’s worst moments into money.”
2. “When I die I want to decompose in a barrel of porter and have it served in all the pubs in Dublin.”
3. “Ridicule is the only weapon which can be used against unintelligible propositions.”
4. “All I can say is that I have taken more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me.”
5. “Some people are born losers; others acquire the knack gradually.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, J. P. Donleavy’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
J. P. Donleavy had two children: Philip Donleavy and Karen Donleavy.
Relevant Links
1. [J. P. Donleavy Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._P._Donleavy
3. [The Guardian: J. P. Donleavy](https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/sep/12/jp-donleavy-obituary
5. [Modern Library: 100 Best Novels](https://www.modernlibrary.com/top-100/100-best-novels/
