A. J. Liebling

Date of Birth: October 18, 1904

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: December 28, 1963

Biography

Abbott Joseph Liebling, known as A. J. Liebling, was an American journalist renowned for his work with “The New Yorker.” Born into a well-educated and culturally enriched family, Liebling’s initial interests lay in literature and journalism. He attended Dartmouth College, though he left without graduating, and later honed his journalistic skills at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. Liebling began his career in 1925, eventually joining “The New Yorker” in 1935, where he became celebrated for his witty, insightful pieces on a variety of subjects, including boxing, war, food, and the press. His most notable works include “The Sweet Science,” a collection of boxing essays, and “Between Meals,” a memoir about his love for French cuisine. Liebling’s writing was characterized by a sophisticated yet accessible style, blending humor with sharp social commentary. He passed away on December 28, 1963, leaving behind a legacy as one of America’s most influential journalists.

5 Interesting Facts about A. J. Liebling

1. A. J. Liebling was an avid boxing fan and wrote extensively about the sport, deeming it “the sweet science.”

2. He served as a war correspondent during World War II, providing vivid and impactful reports from the front lines.

3. Liebling had a great passion for food and travel, particularly French cuisine, which he detailed in his memoir “Between Meals.”

4. He was known for his sharp wit and often critiqued the press, famously coining the phrase, “Freedom of the press is guaranteed only to those who own one.”

5. Liebling’s work at “The New Yorker” spanned nearly three decades, during which he published some of the most enduring pieces in the magazine’s history.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from A. J. Liebling

1. “Freedom of the press is guaranteed only to those who own one.”

2. “The function of the press in society is to inform, but its role in society is to make money.”

3. “I can write better than anybody who can write faster, and I can write faster than anybody who can write better.”

4. “People everywhere confuse what they read in newspapers with news.”

5. “The way to write is well, and how is your own business.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

A. J. Liebling was not known for amassing significant wealth; his net worth was modest, primarily derived from his salary and royalties from his published works.