Life of William Faulkner: This Alarming Paradox, 1935-1962

In the second and concluding volume of Carl Rollyson's ambitious biography, Faulkner lamented the many threats to his creative existence and turned to Hollywood. Rollyson introduces such personalities as Humphrey Bogart and Howard Hawks, while telling the stories behind films such as The Big Sleep and To Have and Have Not. He also chronicles Faulkner's rapidly crumbling marriage and his numerous extramarital affairs, including his relationship with Meta Carpenter. Rollyson approaches this period as a valuable window on his artistry, revealing a fascinating cross-pollination between Faulkner's film and literary work. He also reveals how Faulkner wrestled with the legacy of the South and turned it into powerful art in works such as Go Down, Moses, and Intruder in the Dust.

Format: Hardback
Length: 656 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2020
Publisher: University of Virginia Press

In the first volume of Carl Rollyson's comprehensive biography of William Faulkner, the young Faulkner had undergone a remarkable transformation. Starting as an unpromising, self-mythologizing bohemian, he had evolved into the author of some of the most innovative and enduring literature of the 20th century. Works such as "The Sound and the Fury" and "Light in August" showcased his unparalleled talent. However, as the second and concluding volume of the biography unfolds, Faulkner faces a series of challenges that threaten his creative existence. Feeling that an artist should be above worldly concerns and morality, he has instead inherited debts, a reflection of the fading fortunes of the South. Additionally, he must provide for numerous mouths to feed, as well as cover the expenses of funerals. In this difficult situation, Faulkner is tempted by the classic route taken by financially struggling writers: Hollywood.

Thus, begins a decade-long period of shuttling between his home in Mississippi, the lifeblood of his art, and the backlots of the Golden Age film industry. Rollyson, in his portrayal, introduces notable figures such as Humphrey Bogart and Faulkner's long-time collaborator Howard Hawks, while delving into the stories behind iconic films like "The Big Sleep" and "To Have and Have Not." At the same time, he provides insightful accounts of Faulkner's rapidly crumbling yet resilient marriage and his numerous extramarital affairs, including his deep connection with Meta Carpenter.

While most biographers and critics view Faulkner's film work as either a necessary evil or a tragic waste of his peak creative years, Rollyson approaches this period with a different perspective. He sees it as a valuable window into Faulkner's artistry, offering insights into his creative process and the influences that shaped his work. Through Rollyson's meticulous research and analysis, readers gain a deeper understanding of Faulkner's complex personality and the profound impact he had on American literature and culture.

In conclusion, Carl Rollyson's biography of William Faulkner provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the writer's life and career. Through its two volumes, Rollyson offers a detailed account of Faulkner's transformation from an unpromising bohemian to a literary legend, as well as his struggles and challenges in the film industry. By approaching this period as a valuable window on Faulkner's artistry, Rollyson provides a fresh perspective on the writer's legacy, challenging prevailing notions and revealing the profound impact he had on American literature and culture.

Weight: 1084g
Dimension: 168 x 243 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813944401