Thomas Bernhard

Date of Birth: February 9, 1931

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: February 12, 1989

Biography

Thomas Bernhard was an Austrian novelist, playwright, and poet whose work is often regarded as some of the most significant in post-war German literature. Born on February 9, 1931, in Heerlen, Limburg, Netherlands, Bernhard spent much of his childhood in Austria. He faced a difficult upbringing marked by illness and family strife. His experiences during World War II and his teenage years in a tuberculosis sanatorium were formative and deeply influenced his later work. Bernhard’s writing is known for its bleak outlook, dark humor, and relentless critique of Austrian society and politics. His novels, such as “Frost,” “Gargoyles,” “The Lime Works,” and “Correction,” often feature protagonists grappling with existential despair and alienation. His theatrical works, including “The Ignorant and the Mad” and “Heldenplatz,” are celebrated for their uncompromising examination of human frailty and institutional corruption. Despite facing significant controversy and censorship in his home country, Bernhard’s work garnered international acclaim. He received numerous literary awards, including the Georg Büchner Prize in 1970 and the Austrian State Prize for Literature. Bernhard continued to write prolifically until his death on February 12, 1989, in Gmunden, Austria. His legacy endures through his influential body of work, which continues to be studied and performed worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Thomas Bernhard

1. Thomas Bernhard had a difficult relationship with his family, particularly his mother, which deeply influenced his writing.

2. He spent several years in a tuberculosis sanatorium during his youth, an experience that shaped much of his later work.

3. Bernhard was a passionate music lover and initially trained as a singer before turning to writing.

4. His work was often controversial in Austria, leading to several public scandals and censorship attempts.

5. Despite his contentious relationship with his homeland, Bernhard is considered one of Austria’s greatest literary figures.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Thomas Bernhard

1. “Whoever can no longer listen to their inner voice has lost their way.”

2. “Art altogether is nothing but an imitation of nature.”

3. “The world is a madhouse, so it’s only right that it is run by madmen.”

4. “There’s nothing more detestable than the majority; it consists of stupidity, ignorance, and hate.”

5. “We are always on the verge of being fascinated, but we never quite reach it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Thomas Bernhard’s net worth at the time of his death is not well-documented. However, his literary estate has continued to be valuable, given the enduring popularity and academic interest in his work.