Miles Franklin

Date of Birth: October 14, 1879

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: September 19, 1954

Biography

Stella Maria Sarah Miles Franklin, known as Miles Franklin, was an Australian writer and feminist born on October 14, 1879, in Talbingo, New South Wales, Australia. She is best known for her autobiographical novel “My Brilliant Career,” which she wrote when she was only 19 years old. The book was published in 1901 and became a significant work in Australian literature, highlighting the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Franklin was a passionate advocate for women’s rights and was actively involved in the suffrage movement both in Australia and the United States, where she lived for several years. During her time in the U.S., she worked for the National Women’s Trade Union League, helping to improve conditions for working women. She continued writing throughout her life, producing novels, plays, and essays. In addition to “My Brilliant Career,” her notable works include “My Career Goes Bung” (1946) and the Brent of Bin Bin series. Franklin also wrote under various pseudonyms to explore different literary styles and themes. Franklin passed away on September 19, 1954, in Drummoyne, New South Wales, Australia. Her legacy is honored through the Miles Franklin Award, established with her bequest, which is one of Australia’s most prestigious literary prizes awarded annually for the best Australian novel or play portraying Australian life.

5 Interesting Facts about Miles Franklin

1. Miles Franklin wrote her first novel, “My Brilliant Career,” at the age of 19, which became an instant success and a classic of Australian literature.

2. She spent several years in the United States, where she was active in the women’s suffrage movement and worked for the National Women’s Trade Union League.

3. Despite her early success, Franklin often struggled financially and worked various jobs, including nursing and secretarial work, to support her writing.

4. Franklin wrote under several pseudonyms, including “Brent of Bin Bin,” to explore different genres and avoid the limitations of being typecast as a certain type of writer.

5. The Miles Franklin Award, established through her will, is one of Australia’s most prestigious literary awards, promoting Australian literature and recognizing outstanding contributions to the field.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Miles Franklin

1. “It’s a sign of your own worth sometimes if you are hated by the right people.”

2. “The world is wide, and I will not waste my life in friction when it could be turned into momentum.”

3. “I am grateful for the idea that has used me.”

4. “I had a very angry and, I suppose, an evil heart, and in my anger and evil, I designed a wicked thing.”

5. “I longed for the inevitable heartache that would follow this passion.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Miles Franklin’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but she often faced financial difficulties throughout her life. Her significant contribution to literature, however, has left a lasting legacy beyond monetary value.