Hugh Kingsmill

Date of Birth: July 19, 1889

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 15, 1949

Biography

Hugh Kingsmill Lunn, known professionally as Hugh Kingsmill, was an eminent British writer and literary critic, renowned for his insightful biographies, novels, and essays. Born in London, Kingsmill was educated at Harrow School and later attended the University of Oxford. During his career, he contributed significantly to the literary world with his sharp wit and critical eye. Kingsmill was particularly known for his biographies of notable literary figures such as Samuel Johnson and H.G. Wells, which were acclaimed for their depth and perceptiveness. In addition to his biographical works, he wrote several novels and was a frequent contributor to literary journals. Kingsmill’s ability to capture the essence of his subjects and his keen observations on human nature left an indelible mark on 20th-century literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Hugh Kingsmill

1. Hugh Kingsmill’s full name was Hugh Kingsmill Lunn, but he chose to use just “Hugh Kingsmill” professionally.

2. He was a contemporary and friend of several notable writers, including Arthur Ransome and H.G. Wells.

3. Kingsmill was known for his satirical and often critical approach to biography, setting him apart from other biographers of his time.

4. His biography of H.G. Wells was particularly controversial, as it did not shy away from criticizing the famed author.

5. Kingsmill was also a talented novelist, with works like “The Return of William Shakespeare” showcasing his imaginative storytelling abilities.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hugh Kingsmill

1. “The proper study of mankind is books.”

2. “History is a myth that men agree to believe.”

3. “The art of biography is different from geography. Geography is about maps, but biography is about chaps.”

4. “A man’s life is interesting primarily when he has failed—I well know. For it is a sign that he tried to surpass himself.”

5. “We read biography to find out what we are not.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hugh Kingsmill’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but it is believed that he achieved moderate financial success through his writing and contributions to literary journals.