Cornell Woolrich
Cornell Woolrich
#### A Pioneer of Psychological Thrillers
Cornell George Hopley Wells Woolrich was an American writer, best known for his contributions to the literary world as a master of psychological thrillers and detective fiction.
Full Name and Common Aliases
Woolrich's full name is often seen in various formats. To most readers, he is simply Cornell Woolrich, but some may recognize him by his birth name, Cornell George Hopley Wells, or even the pen names he used throughout his career: William Dillon, George W. O. Bell, and Eric Stanton.
Birth and Death Dates
Cornell Woolrich was born on January 4, 1903, in New York City, United States. He passed away on October 25, 1968, at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate readers and inspire writers to this day.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Woolrich was an American writer by birth and nationality. His profession as an author spanned multiple genres, but he is most notable for his work in psychological thrillers and detective fiction.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a middle-class family, Woolrich's early life was marked by a sense of stability and security. However, it wasn't until he suffered a spinal injury that led to partial paralysis at the age of 15 that his life took a dramatic turn. This experience had a profound impact on his writing, often reflecting themes of isolation, vulnerability, and the darker aspects of human nature.
Major Accomplishments
Woolrich's accomplishments as a writer are numerous. Some of his notable works include:
"Burger's Daughter" (1935), one of his earliest novels
"The Bride Wore Black" (1940), which gained significant attention and acclaim
"Phantom Lady" (1942), a classic psychological thriller that has been adapted into several films
His work often explored the complexities of human relationships, the darker aspects of life, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Notable Works or Actions
Woolrich's writing career was marked by a steady output of novels, short stories, and screenplays. Some of his notable works include:
"The Kiss Before Faking" (1939), a romantic comedy that showcases his versatility as an author
* "Waltz into Darkness" (1954), a psychological thriller that explores themes of identity and morality
His writing often pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in mainstream literature, tackling topics such as crime, punishment, and the human condition.
Impact and Legacy
Cornell Woolrich's impact on the literary world cannot be overstated. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of psychological thrillers, influencing a generation of writers who followed in his footsteps. His work continues to captivate readers with its thought-provoking themes and intricate plots.
Woolrich's legacy extends beyond the realm of literature, as well. His writing has been adapted into numerous films, including "Phantom Lady," which starred Franchot Tone and Ella Raines. This adaptation not only showcased his work but also cemented his place in the world of cinema.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Cornell Woolrich's contributions to literature are a testament to his skill as a writer and his ability to craft stories that resonate with readers long after they finish reading. His exploration of the human condition, coupled with his unflinching examination of the darker aspects of life, has made him a beloved figure in the literary world.
As a writer who pushed boundaries and challenged conventions, Cornell Woolrich's work continues to inspire new generations of authors and readers alike.
Quotes by Cornell Woolrich
Cornell Woolrich's insights on:
Take it easy,” he jeered, “relax. I used to be a sailor. You’ll never get out of them knots, buddy.
Something deep within him, what it was he had no leisure nor skill to recognize, seemed to retreat down long dim corridors away from the doom that impeded. He hadn’t known he had those convenient corridors of evasion in him, with their protective turns and angles by which to put distance between himself and menace. Oh clever architect of the Mind, oh merciful blueprints that made such emergency exits available.
To be worshiped, though I didn’t realize it at the moment, is a far more dangerous situation to be in than simply to be desired.
The lights of the city streaked off below him like the luminous spokes of a warped wheel. An indistinctly outlined, pearly moon seemed to drip down the sky, like a clot of incandescent tapioca thrown up against the night by a cosmic comic. He lit the after-the-dance, while-waiting-for-her-to-come-back cigarette. He felt good, looking down at the town that had nearly had him licked once. “I’m all set now,” he thought. “I’m young. I’ve got love. I’ve got a clear track. The rest is a cinch.
Evans made himself their spokesman. “Charlie and Joe,” he offered. “Remember us? We brought a friend back with us this time.” Girls evidently didn’t count in this little subdivision of the underworld; a miscalculation many a shady character has made.
No doubt about it. We’ve made a preliminary examination, and I don’t even think we’ll have to resort to blood transfusion. What saved him more than anything else were the makeshift bandages that were found on him. If it hadn’t been for them he’d have been a goner long before he was picked up.” This went over my head at the time. I didn’t understand. I thought he meant their own bandages, the hospital’s.
All guys are scared of each other, didn’t you know that? I’m not the only one. We’re all born afraid.
I had that trapped feeling, like some sort of a poor insect that you’ve put inside a downturned glass, and it tries to climb up the sides, and it can’t, and it can’t, and it can’t.
As for her perfume, it was the kind you only noticed after she’d left a room, not while she was still in it. Even then you didn’t realize it was perfume, you only wondered what had made you think of her just then.