James Payn

Date of Birth: February 28, 1830

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: March 25, 1898

Biography

James Payn was an English novelist and editor, celebrated for his contribution to both literature and journalism during the 19th century. Born in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, Payn’s early education took place at Eton College and subsequently at the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich. However, he soon diverged from a military career to pursue his passion for writing. Payn attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he began to write poetry and essays, subsequently leading to a prolific career as a novelist. Payn wrote over 60 novels, with “Lost Sir Massingberd” being one of his most popular works, known for its intriguing plot and character development. Apart from his novels, he was also an influential editor for several periodicals, including “Chambers’s Journal” and “Cornhill Magazine,” where he worked alongside literary giants like William Makepeace Thackeray and George Eliot. Payn’s writing was characterized by his wit, humor, and humanistic insight, which resonated with the Victorian readership.

5 Interesting Facts about James Payn

1. James Payn’s novel “Lost Sir Massingberd” was serialized in “Chambers’s Journal” and was a significant commercial success.

2. He was a close friend of Charles Dickens and even contributed to Dickens’ publication, “Household Words.”

3. Payn suffered from chronic health issues throughout his life, including arthritis, which often impacted his ability to write.

4. He was awarded a Civil List pension in recognition of his literary contributions.

5. Payn’s editorial work at “Cornhill Magazine” helped launch the careers of several notable authors, including Thomas Hardy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from James Payn

1. “The world is a looking-glass and gives back to every man the reflection of his own face.”

2. “One can endure sorrow alone, but it takes two to be glad.”

3. “The man who has no imagination has no wings.”

4. “Life is a perpetual instruction in cause and effect.”

5. “Our bravest and best lessons are not learned through success, but through misadventure.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

James Payn’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a successful novelist and editor in the 19th century, he was well-compensated for his work, earning a comfortable living that allowed him to support his family and live relatively comfortably.

Children

James Payn had several children with his wife, Elizabeth Robotham. Their family life was marred by the death of two of their children in infancy, but they raised their surviving children with care. Unfortunately, detailed records about the names and lives of all his children are scarce.