Mark Van Doren

Date of Birth: June 13, 1894

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: December 10, 1972

Biography

Mark Van Doren was a distinguished American poet, writer, and critic, born on June 13, 1894, in Hope, Illinois. He is renowned for his lyrical and contemplative poetry, as well as his influential role as a professor of English at Columbia University. Van Doren’s career spanned several decades, during which he garnered significant acclaim for his contributions to literature and education. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1940 for his book, “Collected Poems 1922-1938,” which solidified his reputation as a leading figure in American poetry. Van Doren’s literary career was complemented by his academic achievements; he was a beloved teacher who inspired generations of students with his passion for literature. He was also a prolific writer of essays, reviews, and critical works, and he edited several important literary anthologies. His commitment to literature and education made him a central figure in the cultural life of the United States during the mid-20th century.

5 Interesting Facts about Mark Van Doren

1. Mark Van Doren won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1940 for his “Collected Poems 1922-1938.”

2. He was a professor of English at Columbia University for nearly 40 years.

3. Van Doren’s brother, Carl Van Doren, was also a notable literary critic and historian.

4. He was part of the intellectual circle that included other literary giants such as Thomas Merton and Allen Tate.

5. Mark Van Doren’s son, Charles Van Doren, was famously embroiled in the 1950s quiz show scandal.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mark Van Doren

1. “The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.”

2. “Wit is the only wall between us and the dark.”

3. “Nothing in man is more serious than his sense of humor; it is the sign that he wants all the truth.”

4. “An unexamined faith is not worth having, for it can be true only by accident.”

5. “Memory is a great artist. For every man and for every woman, it makes the recollection of his or her life a work of art and an unfaithful record.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Mark Van Doren’s highest net worth is not well-documented, as financial records of poets from his era are typically sparse. However, his legacy is measured more by his literary and educational contributions rather than his wealth.

Children

Mark Van Doren and his wife, Dorothy Graffe, had one son, Charles Van Doren. Charles became a prominent figure due to his involvement in the 1950s quiz show scandal, which was later dramatized in the film “Quiz Show.”