The Life of John Middleton Murry

The Life of John Middleton Murry, published in 1959, is the first biography of a controversial figure in English letters. It explores his various capacities as an editor, critique, author, and husband of Katherine Mansfield. The author aims to trace the consistent purpose uniting all his activities, presenting Murrys theories without objective evaluation. The book is of interest to scholars and researchers in historical biographies, British history, and literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 410 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1959, The Life of John Middleton Murry stands as the inaugural biography of one of the most enigmatic figures in English literature. Widely recognized for his diverse roles and contributions, Middleton Murry's life encompasses a multitude of experiences and accomplishments. As an editor, he held influential positions at esteemed publications such as Rhythm, The Athenaeum, The Adelphi, and Peace News. He served as a prominent critic, authoring numerous books on literary, religious, and social subjects. Additionally, he was the husband of renowned writer Katherine Mansfield and was closely associated with D.H. Lawrence. Beyond his literary and intellectual pursuits, Middleton Murry was also regarded as a prophet, politician, and farmer, adding further complexity to his multifaceted persona.

Despite his widespread recognition, few individuals were able to discern the underlying purpose that unified all of Middleton Murry's diverse activities. This book serves as a dedicated endeavor to trace the threads that interconnected his multifaceted endeavors. Adhering to the belief that the duty of the "official biographer" is primarily to present rather than interpret, the author refrains from engaging in objective evaluations of Middleton Murry's theories. Instead, he focuses on illustrating the profound influence of his unique and tragic experiences on the development of his ideas. At the same time, he openly expresses his personal perspective on Middleton Murry's significance, both as a thinker and as a representative figure of a transformative era characterized by rapid social change.

The Life of John Middleton Murry holds immense appeal to scholars and researchers specializing in historical biographies, British history, and literature. Its comprehensive coverage of Middleton Murry's life and work provides valuable insights into the complexities of a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on the literary and cultural landscape of his time. By delving into the various facets of his life and career, this book offers a deeper understanding of the man and his contributions, shedding light on his enduring legacy and the enduring relevance of his ideas.

Weight: 757g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032069609