Allan Gurganus
Allan Gurganus
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Allan Gurganus is an American novelist, essayist, and short story writer.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on July 24, 1947. Still active in his writing career.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American, Novelist, Essayist, Short Story Writer.
Early Life and Background
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Allan Gurganus was born in Raleigh, North Carolina. He grew up with a love for reading and storytelling, which would eventually become the cornerstone of his writing career. His experiences growing up in the rural South greatly influenced his work, often exploring themes of identity, community, and the complexities of human relationships.
Major Accomplishments
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Gurganus's breakthrough novel, _Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All_, was published in 1989 to critical acclaim. The book explores the life of a widowed Civil War veteran and her reflections on the war, marriage, and loss. This novel catapulted Gurganus into the literary spotlight, earning him numerous awards, including the National Book Award nomination.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some of his notable works include:
_Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All_ (1989)
_The Princess Las Pulgas_ (1992)
_Plays Well with Others: The Gloria Molder Stories_ (1998)
Gurganus's writing often delves into the human condition, exploring themes of love, loss, and identity. His works are characterized by their lyricism, depth, and ability to transport readers to another time and place.
Impact and Legacy
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Allan Gurganus has left an indelible mark on American literature. His writing has been praised for its nuance, sensitivity, and unflinching portrayal of the human experience. He continues to be a celebrated figure in literary circles, with his work widely studied in academic settings.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Gurganus's writing is often quoted and remembered because it:
Captures the essence of the human condition: His works explore universal themes that resonate deeply with readers.
Offers a unique perspective on American history: His novels, such as _Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All_, provide insight into pivotal moments in American history from a personal, emotional standpoint.
Demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship: Gurganus's writing is known for its lyricism, depth, and ability to transport readers to another time and place.
Allan Gurganus's body of work serves as a testament to his skill and dedication as a writer. His contributions to American literature have earned him widespread recognition, and his works continue to be celebrated by readers and scholars alike.
Quotes by Allan Gurganus
We’d die here, old together, safe with each other’s secrets. We were each other’s juvenilia.
I started thinking of my absentee diamond. My thumb and little finger kept reaching for their pet and sidekick.
He, the true writer, is the department store dummy at the very center of the whole establishment, the one left alone on display all night, a price tag stapled to every piece of clothing they’ve yanked onto him, binoculars and frog flippers included. He is the neutral, generic human form, the gray center who must always assume disguises – in order to be seen and, therefore, to feel himself.
Without much accuracy, with strangely little love at all, your family will decide for you exactly who you are, and they’ll keep nudging, coaxing, poking you until you’ve changed into that very simple shape.
Without much accuracy, with strangely little love at all, your family will decide for you exactly who you are, and they'll keep nudging, coaxing, poking you until you've changed into that very simple shape.
I think Walt Whitman went to the help wanted section and found a squib that said "Wanted: National Poet." And he was innocent enough to believe there really was such a job. And if he could just write a poem that incorporated everything he felt and suspected and hoped for from America that he would have the position.