George Woodcock

Date of Birth: May 8, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: January 28, 1995

Biography

George Woodcock was an influential Canadian writer, essayist, and literary critic known for his contributions to both anarchist thought and Canadian literature. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he moved to England with his family at a young age and later returned to Canada, where he established himself as a prominent intellectual figure. Woodcock was a prolific author, having penned over 100 books, including essays, biographies, and poetry. His works often explored themes of freedom, individualism, and the critique of societal structures. Among his most notable works is “Anarchism: A History of Libertarian Ideas and Movements,” which remains an essential text in anarchist studies. Woodcock also founded the influential journal “Canadian Literature,” which played a critical role in promoting Canadian writers and literary scholarship.

5 Interesting Facts about George Woodcock

1. George Woodcock was a conscientious objector during World War II, which significantly influenced his later writings on pacifism and anarchism.

2. He received numerous awards for his contributions to literature, including the Governor General’s Award for his critical works.

3. Woodcock was a close friend of the famous English writer George Orwell, and he wrote a well-regarded biography of Orwell.

4. He was instrumental in founding the Tibetan Refugee Aid Society in Canada, reflecting his deep commitment to humanitarian causes.

5. Despite his literary success, Woodcock spent much of his life in relative financial modesty, focusing on his intellectual pursuits rather than material wealth.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Woodcock

1. “The goal of anarchism is a social order based on the free grouping of individuals for the purposes of production, distribution, and consumption.”

2. “A writer’s duty is to be a witness to the world, to see it clearly, and to tell the truth about it.”

3. “Real freedom lies in wildness, not in civilization.”

4. “The true revolutionary is guided by great feelings of love.”

5. “Literature is a means to an end, that end being the understanding of human nature and the improvement of human society.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

George Woodcock’s highest net worth was modest compared to contemporary literary figures, estimated to be around $1 million at the peak of his career.