John Millington Synge

Date of Birth: April 16, 1871

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: March 24, 1909

Biography

John Millington Synge was an Irish playwright, poet, and prose writer, born on April 16, 1871, in Rathfarnham, County Dublin, Ireland. He is best known for his association with the Irish Literary Revival and as a co-founder of the Abbey Theatre. Synge was a master of capturing the essence of rural Irish life, often delving into the complexities and challenges faced by the common people. His works were characterized by their authentic dialogue, rich with the idiomatic speech of the Irish peasantry. After initially studying music, Synge turned to literature, influenced by the works of Henrik Ibsen and his interactions with W. B. Yeats. His most famous play, “The Playboy of the Western World” (1907), initially sparked riots due to its controversial portrayal of Irish rural life but has since become a cornerstone of Irish theatrical literature. Other notable works include “Riders to the Sea” (1904) and “The Well of the Saints” (1905). Synge’s literary career was tragically cut short when he died of Hodgkin’s disease at the age of 37. Despite his brief life, his contributions to Irish literature and theater have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

5 Interesting Facts about John Millington Synge

1. Synge was a co-founder of the Abbey Theatre, Ireland’s national theater, along with W. B. Yeats and Lady Gregory.

2. “The Playboy of the Western World” caused riots when it premiered at the Abbey Theatre due to its perceived negative portrayal of Irish rural life.

3. Synge spent considerable time on the Aran Islands, which profoundly influenced his writing and provided material for his book “The Aran Islands” (1907).

4. Synge initially studied music before shifting his focus to literature and drama.

5. Despite his relatively small body of work, Synge is considered one of the most important figures in the Irish Literary Revival.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Millington Synge

1. “A man who is not afraid of the sea will soon be drowned, for he will be going out on a day he shouldn’t. But we do be afraid of the sea, and we do only be drownded now and again.”

2. “In a good play, every speech should be as fully flavored as a nut or apple.”

3. “It’s in a lonely place, I’ll be living on the side of the mountain, and the sea will be great company when you’re old.”

4. “The drama, like the symphony, does not teach or prove anything.”

5. “Lord Almighty, will you look at the lightning, the sky is an ocean of fire.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

During his lifetime, Synge did not achieve significant financial success, and his net worth was modest. He is remembered more for his cultural and literary contributions than for any financial wealth.