John Gardner
Born: 01-01-1926
John Gardner was a distinguished American novelist and literary critic, renowned for his unique storytelling and exploration of moral themes. Born in 1933, he gained acclaim with works like "Grendel," a retelling of the Beowulf myth. Gardner was also a respected teacher of creative writing and penned influential books on the craft, such as "The Art of Fiction." His legacy continues to inspire writers and readers alike.
Book summaries for books written by John Gardner
Quotes
I observe myself observing what I observe. It startles me. 'Then I am I?'
I understood that the world was nothing: a mechanical chaos of casual, brute enmity on which we stupidly impose our hopes and fears.
I was Grendel, warpspawned, deformed to a giant monster.
I am mad with joy.
I was full of fear, full of hatred.
I understood that, finally and absolutely, I alone exist.
I was sure I was dead.
I was the worst of all monsters, I was the worst of all men.
I understood that the universe was nothing but a fuming chaos.
I understood that the shapes of gods and devils are subjective.
I see a world of magnificent destiny for me.
I see the world through my own eyes, and I am the only one I can ever know, if I can know myself at all.