William Golding (1911-1993)

Birth

Sep 19, 1911

Born in Saint Columb Minor, Cornwall, England. Child to Mildred and Alec Golding, a womens rights suffragist and schoolteacher, respectively.

Publication of First Written Work

Apr 4, 1934

Whilst attending Brasenose College at Oxford University, Golding studied English Literature. HIs first published work, titled "Poems", did not receive very much recognition, but helped lead him to a writing career.

Enrolls in the Royal Navy

Apr 1, 1940

While primarily working as an English teacher, Golding took time off to serve in the Royal Navy. During World War II, he was placed in charge of defending the British lines at Bismarck. It was here that Golding began to see the pure aggression and ruthlessness buried deep inside of man. Post WWII, Golding retired from the army, to once again pursue teaching.

Publication of "The Lord of the Flies"

Sep 17, 1954

After facing rejection from 21 publishers, Golding finally published his critically acclaimed novel. The book was centered around a group of boys marooned on an island, who quickly turn into savages. The hidden meaning within the work is the true characteristics all men carry with them.

Recieves Nobel Prize for Literature

Jan 12, 1983

At an old age, Golding received the pinnacle of awards in his work. This is widely considered his greatest achievement.

Death

Jun 19, 1993

Golding spent the remainder of his lifewith his wife and two children in their home in Cornwall. He continued to write until he suffered from a heart attack which lead to his death