Date of Birth: August 11, 1913
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: May 31, 1991
Biography
Angus Wilson was an influential English novelist and short story writer known for his keen social observations, wit, and intricate character portrayals. Born in Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex, Wilson was one of the key figures in post-World War II British literature. He attended Westminster School and later Merton College, Oxford, where he studied history. During World War II, Wilson worked at the Bletchley Park code-breaking center, which significantly influenced his later writing. His literary career took off with the publication of “The Wrong Set” in 1949, a collection of short stories that received critical acclaim for its sharp social commentary. Wilson’s novels often explored themes of social change, morality, and the complexities of human relationships. Notable works include “Anglo-Saxon Attitudes” (1956), which was later adapted into a successful television series, and “The Middle Age of Mrs. Eliot” (1958), which won the James Tait Black Memorial Prize. In addition to his novels and short stories, Wilson was a prominent critic and essayist, contributing to various literary journals and newspapers. In recognition of his contribution to literature, Wilson was knighted in 1980. He was also a founding member of the University of East Anglia’s creative writing program, which has produced many notable writers. Wilson’s work remains an essential part of the British literary canon, celebrated for its depth, humor, and enduring relevance.
5 Interesting Facts about Angus Wilson
1. Angus Wilson was knighted in 1980 for his services to literature.
2. He worked at Bletchley Park during World War II, where he was involved in code-breaking efforts.
3. His novel “Anglo-Saxon Attitudes” was adapted into a critically acclaimed television series in 1992.
4. Wilson was one of the founders of the creative writing program at the University of East Anglia.
5. He won the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for his novel “The Middle Age of Mrs. Eliot” in 1958.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Angus Wilson
1. “The past is like a foreign country; they do things differently there.”
2. “A writer’s job is to tell the truth.”
3. “Insecurity is the mother of greed.”
4. “Our society is run by insane people for insane objectives.”
5. “The only thing that binds individuals together is ideas.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Angus Wilson’s net worth was estimated to be around £1 million, a considerable sum for a writer of his time.
Children
Angus Wilson did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Angus Wilson – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angus_Wilson
2. [Bletchley Park – Code-breaking efforts](https://bletchleypark.org.uk/
4. [James Tait Black Memorial Prize](https://www.ed.ac.uk/events/james-tait-black
5. [Anglo-Saxon Attitudes – TV Adaptation](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104543/