Gilbert Parker
Gilbert Parker
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Gilbert Parker's full name is Sir Gilbert Parker, 1st Baronet. He was also known as Gilbert E. Parcher.
Birth and Death Dates
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Gilbert Parker was born on August 23, 1862, in Balsams, New Brunswick, Canada. He passed away on March 14, 1939, at the age of 76, in London, England.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Sir Gilbert Parker held dual Canadian-British nationality. His profession spanned multiple realms: he was a writer, politician, diplomat, and philanthropist.
Early Life and Background
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Parker's family immigrated to Canada from the United States when he was young. This background fostered his connection with both cultures, which would later influence his writing. He received his early education in Canada before attending King's College in Windsor, Nova Scotia.
Major Accomplishments
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As a politician, Gilbert Parker served as Member of Parliament for Hastings from 1896 to 1900 and was appointed Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies. This position allowed him to advocate for Canadian interests abroad.
In his literary career, he authored numerous short stories and novels that garnered significant attention. His notable works include The Seats of the Mighty and Pierre and Jean.
Gilbert Parker's accomplishments extend beyond literature and politics; he was also an accomplished diplomat who served as High Commissioner in London from 1905 to 1910, acting on behalf of the Canadian government.
Notable Works or Actions
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Parker's writing often explored themes related to colonialism, identity, and national character. His work reflected his experiences as a bridge between Canada and Britain. Some notable works include:
The Seats of the Mighty (1896) - A novel that delves into Canadian history and politics during the British Empire.
Pierre and Jean (1914) - A novel set against the backdrop of World War I, exploring themes of identity and belonging.
Impact and Legacy
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Gilbert Parker's legacy is multifaceted. As a writer, he contributed to Canada's literary landscape by sharing perspectives on Canadian society during the period of British influence.
As a politician and diplomat, he played a significant role in shaping Canada's international relationships and advocating for its interests abroad. His work as High Commissioner helped foster stronger ties between Canada and Britain during his tenure.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Gilbert Parker is remembered for his ability to bridge cultural divides through his writing, which offered a unique perspective on the complex dynamics of colonialism and national identity.
His experiences as a politician and diplomat further solidified his impact on Canadian history. Today, he remains an influential figure in Canada's literary and political heritage.
Quotes by Gilbert Parker
There’s no tongue that’s so tied, when tying’s needed, as the one that babbles most bewhiles. Babbling covers a lot of secrets.
Man is born in a day, and he dies in a day, and the thing is easily over; but to have a sick heart for three-fourths of one’s lifetime is simply to have death renewed every morning; and life at that price is not worth living.
It’s the people who try to be clever who never are; the people who are clever never think of trying to be.
There’s no credit in not doing what you don’t want to do. There’s no virtue in not falling, when you’re not tempted.
Every man should have laws of his own, I should think; commandments of his own, for every man has a different set of circumstances wherein to work – or worry.
Love knows not distance; it hath no continent; its eyes are for the stars, its feet for the swords; it continueth, though an army lay waste the pasture; it comforteth when there are no medicines; it hath the relish of manna; and by it do men live in the desert.