Philip Roth

Date of Birth: March 19, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: May 22, 2018

Biography

Philip Roth was an American novelist, widely regarded as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Roth’s work often delved into themes of Jewish identity, American ideals, and the complexities of human sexuality. He first gained fame with his 1959 novella “Goodbye, Columbus,” which won the National Book Award. His 1969 novel “Portnoy’s Complaint” was both a critical and commercial success, known for its explicit content and psychological depth. Over his career, Roth published more than 30 books, including notable works like “American Pastoral,” “The Human Stain,” and “Sabbath’s Theater.” Roth won numerous awards, including two National Book Awards, three PEN/Faulkner Awards, and a Pulitzer Prize. He announced his retirement from writing in 2012. Roth was also known for his reclusive nature and his sharp critique of American society and politics.

5 Interesting Facts about Philip Roth

1. Philip Roth was the first writer to have his works published in a complete edition by the Library of America during his lifetime.

2. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1998 for his novel “American Pastoral.”

3. Roth was an ardent critic of the Bush administration and American foreign policy, which he explored in his novel “The Plot Against America.”

4. Despite his numerous accolades, Roth never won the Nobel Prize in Literature, a point of contention for many of his admirers.

5. Roth retired from writing in 2012, declaring that he would no longer write or give interviews, focusing instead on reading and living a quieter life.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Philip Roth

1. “When you publish a book, it’s the world’s book. The world edits it.”

2. “The road to hell is paved with works-in-progress.”

3. “Literature isn’t a moral beauty contest. Its power arises from the authority and audacity with which the impersonation is pulled off; the belief it inspires is what counts.”

4. “I don’t want to achieve immortality through my work. I want to achieve it by not dying.”

5. “Old age isn’t a battle; old age is a massacre.”