Brendan Gill

Date of Birth: October 4, 1914

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: December 27, 1997

Biography

Brendan Gill was an influential American writer and critic, best known for his long tenure at The New Yorker magazine, where he worked for over 60 years. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Gill attended Yale University, where he was the editor of the Yale Literary Magazine and a member of the Elizabethan Club. He joined The New Yorker in 1936 and quickly became known for his incisive and witty critiques. Over his career, he wrote numerous essays, reviews, and profiles, establishing himself as a prominent cultural commentator. Gill was also an accomplished author, writing more than 20 books ranging from biographies and memoirs to novels and architectural critiques. His book “Here at The New Yorker” is a celebrated memoir that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magazine and its illustrious contributors. Besides his literary pursuits, Gill was an avid supporter of the arts and served on various boards, including the Municipal Art Society of New York, where he played a significant role in preserving historic landmarks.

5 Interesting Facts about Brendan Gill

1. Brendan Gill joined The New Yorker at the age of 22 and remained with the magazine for 61 years.

2. He was a passionate preservationist and played a critical role in saving Grand Central Terminal from demolition.

3. Gill wrote the text for the book “Many Masks: A Life of Frank Lloyd Wright,” which is considered one of the definitive biographies of the architect.

4. He was a trustee of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation.

5. In addition to his writing, he was an accomplished public speaker and frequently lectured on topics related to literature and architecture.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Brendan Gill

1. “Not a shred of evidence exists in favor of the idea that life is serious.”

2. “We are at our very best, and we are happiest, when we are fully engaged in work we enjoy on the journey toward the goal we’ve established for ourselves.”

3. “Parody is homage gone sour.”

4. “The New Yorker has been for me, and still is, a kind of home.”

5. “Preservation is simply having the good sense to hold on to things that are well designed, that link us with our past in a meaningful way, and that have plenty of good use left in them.”