William Beckford
Born: 01-01-1760
William Beckford (1760-1844) was an English novelist, art collector, and politician, renowned for his Gothic novel "Vathek." A wealthy heir, Beckford's opulent lifestyle and passion for the arts were reflected in his elaborate estate, Fonthill Abbey. Despite political involvement as a Member of Parliament, his literary and architectural pursuits defined his legacy. Beckford's imaginative storytelling and indulgent tastes left an indelible mark on the Gothic literature genre.
Book summaries for books written by William Beckford
Quotes
The sages, in the moment of peril, had recourse to their art, and the city of Samarah rose in an instant from its ruins.
The prophet solemnly cursed the earth that it should not henceforward yield anything but poisonous plants.
Vathek, who was himself a stranger to fear, felt too full of confidence to be very cautious.
The Caliph, who a few moments before had been so haughty and stately, was now on his knees before the Giaour, and in the attitude of a suppliant.
He who knows himself to be a fool is not the biggest fool; but pride, which ever is awake, supposes itself to be wise.
The guilty can never be at ease, nor the wretched happy.
Vathek, instead of being depressed by his misfortunes, was animated with new courage.
The heart of Vathek was fired with the thirst of unbounded power, and he understood not the happiness of those who live in tranquillity.
The Giaour, though marked with the seal of predestination, was not insensible to the charm of beauty.
The air resounded with the groans of the dying and the lamentations of the living.
The people, who were spectators of these dreadful scenes, offered up prayers for the Caliph, and execrations against the Giaour.
The Caliph, who had till now only experienced the force of his own inclinations, and a few transient emotions of pity, was become an adept in crimes.