Date of Birth: July 23, 1928
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: April 26, 2004
Biography
Hubert Selby, Jr. was an American writer born on July 23, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York. Selby is best known for his controversial and groundbreaking novels, which often explore the darker aspects of urban life. His most famous works include “Last Exit to Brooklyn” and “Requiem for a Dream,” both of which have been adapted into films. Selby’s early life was marked by hardship and illness. He dropped out of high school and joined the Merchant Marine, but his career was cut short due to tuberculosis, which he contracted during World War II. This illness left him bedridden for years and led to a lifelong struggle with drug addiction. Despite these challenges, Selby turned to writing as a form of catharsis and expression. His writing style is noted for its raw, unflinching portrayal of human suffering and societal decay, often employing unconventional grammar and punctuation to enhance the emotional impact. Selby’s first novel, “Last Exit to Brooklyn” (1964), was initially banned for its explicit content but later gained critical acclaim and a cult following. His subsequent works, including “The Room” (1971), “Requiem for a Dream” (1978), and “The Willow Tree” (1998), continued to solidify his reputation as a provocative and influential writer. Selby also taught creative writing at the University of Southern California, where he inspired a new generation of writers. He passed away on April 26, 2004, but his literary legacy continues to resonate.
5 Interesting Facts about Hubert Selby, Jr.
1. Hubert Selby, Jr. was initially a Merchant Marine before a severe bout of tuberculosis forced him to abandon his maritime career.
2. “Last Exit to Brooklyn” was initially banned in Italy and the UK for its explicit content but was later recognized as a significant literary work.
3. Selby struggled with drug addiction for much of his life, a theme that frequently appeared in his writing.
4. He often used unconventional grammar and punctuation, a style that was both criticized and praised for its emotional intensity.
5. Selby taught creative writing at the University of Southern California, impacting many aspiring writers with his unique approach to storytelling.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hubert Selby, Jr.
1. “Being an artist doesn’t mean that you’re a good artist. That was the hardest lesson I ever had to learn.”
2. “I write, for the same reason I breathe—because if I didn’t, I would die.”
3. “I’m not a writer. I can’t write. I just have stories to tell.”
4. “Literature should not disappear up its own asshole, so to speak.”
5. “The only thing that matters is the story. The story is everything.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Hubert Selby, Jr.’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, primarily from his literary works and teaching career.
Children
Hubert Selby, Jr. had four children: two sons and two daughters. His children have largely stayed out of the public eye, leading private lives.
Relevant Links
1. [Hubert Selby Jr.’s Biography on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0782984/bio
