Sinclair Lewis

Date of Birth: February 7, 1885

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: January 10, 1951

Biography

Sinclair Lewis was an American novelist, short-story writer, and playwright, born on February 7, 1885, in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. He became the first writer from the United States to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1930. Lewis is best known for his satirical and critical depictions of American society in the early 20th century. Some of his most famous works include “Main Street” (1920), “Babbitt” (1922), “Arrowsmith” (1925), and “Elmer Gantry” (1927). Lewis’s writing is characterized by his keen observation of social dynamics, his critique of materialism and mediocrity, and his incisive wit. He was a prolific writer, and his works often sparked controversy due to their candid portrayal of American life. Despite his critical view of American society, Lewis’s novels were widely read and appreciated for their storytelling and rich character development. In his personal life, Lewis struggled with alcoholism and had tumultuous relationships, including two marriages that ended in divorce. He spent his later years traveling and writing, although his later works did not achieve the same acclaim as his earlier novels. Sinclair Lewis died on January 10, 1951, in Rome, Italy, from a heart attack.

5 Interesting Facts about Sinclair Lewis

1. Sinclair Lewis was the first American to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, awarded in 1930.

2. His novel “Arrowsmith” was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1926, but Lewis declined the honor.

3. He was known for his critical and satirical view of American society, which was reflected in his writing.

4. Lewis’s novel “Elmer Gantry” was banned in several cities due to its controversial portrayal of evangelical preachers.

5. He was an advocate for social reform and was involved in various political causes throughout his life.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Sinclair Lewis

1. “Our American professors like their literature clear and cold and pure and very dead.”

2. “When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.”

3. “Life is not a spectacle or a feast; it is a predicament.”

4. “I love America, but I don’t like it.”

5. “What is love? It is the morning and the evening star.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Sinclair Lewis’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $3 million at the peak of his career, which would be significantly higher when adjusted for inflation today.