William Golding

Born

Sep 19, 1911

William Golding was born on September 19 in Cornwall, England. He was raised in a house next door to a graveyard and with his mother and father who was a school master.

First steps as a writer

Mar 30, 1923

When Golding was just 12 years old, he attempted to write his first novel, ending with failure. He took his frustration out on others, as he was known as a bully in his younger years. He now realizes this and describes himself as a brat.

Publishes first work

Mar 30, 1934

During college, William goes against his father's wishes for him to be a scientist and publishes book of poems. This piece was ignored by many and did not make it very far in the world of literature.

Starts teaching career

Mar 30, 1935

Following his father's footsteps, Golding takes a teacher position soon after college. He taught English and philosophy at Bishop Wordsworth's school. He was very passionate about his career but was soon interrupted by the war.

Joins Royal Navy

Mar 30, 1940

Golding abandoned his teaching career in 1940 to fight in WW2 in the royal navy. He spent most of his six years on a boat and fell in love with sailing and the sea. In 1945 when the war ended, William went back to his teaching career

Publishes "Lord of the Flies"

Mar 30, 1954

After receiving 21 rejections, Golding publishes his first and most famous novel, "Lord of the Flies". Inspired by other stories, his own children, and students, William wrote a book that is now known as a classic that is read by kids and adults all over the world.

Receives Nobel Prize for Litature

Mar 30, 1983

After retiring from teaching and having a movie made about his book, Golding is awarded the Nobel Prize for literature. Later in 1988, he was crowned by England's Queen Elizabeth ll.

Dies

Jun 19, 1993

William Golding passed away in 1993 by a heart attack after living many quiet years writing with his wife and two kids. His legacy lives on still within his books, plays, poetry, and many other forms of literature.