My journey through Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s bio begins with an appreciation for her as an extraordinary woman of letters. Her life, steeped in the rich tapestry of the American South, was as captivating as the stories she penned. As we delve into the fascinating world of Marjorie, we’ll discover how her personal experiences influenced the vivid characters and evocative settings in her novels.
Rawlings’s books have left an indelible mark not only in the literary world but also in the sphere of cinema. Her life’s narrative is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and undeniable talent, which I hope to unravel in this comprehensive exploration of her biography.
Early Life and Introduction to Writing
Born on August 8, 1896, in Washington D.C., Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings was destined for a life of creativity. Her mother, Ida May Traphagen, was a music teacher and her father, Arthur Frank Kinnan, was a patent lawyer. These early influences sparked her fascination with the arts.
As a child, Rawlings discovered her love for writing. She crafted her first story at the tender age of six, demonstrating an innate talent for storytelling. Her father’s tragic death when she was only seventeen had a profound impact on her, shaping her perspective on life and death—themes she would later explore in her works.
Marjorie studied English at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and graduated in 1918. After a brief stint as a writer for the YWCA and a newspaper reporter, she married Charles Rawlings in 1919. The couple moved to rural Florida in 1928—a decision that would profoundly influence Marjorie’s writing career.
The First Book of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s first literary offering came in the form of a novel titled “South Moon Under.” Published in 1933, the story explores the lives of poor inhabitants of the Florida scrub country. Rawlings’s vivid descriptions of the natural landscape and the struggles of her characters reflected her deep connection with the land and its people.
“South Moon Under” marked the beginning of Rawlings’s illustrious writing career. Although the book was not an immediate commercial success, it caught the attention of Maxwell Perkins, a prominent editor at Scribner’s who recognized Rawlings’s potential and encouraged her to continue writing about the Florida backwoods—which she did, with great success.
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s Books in Order
Rawlings’s literary journey is marked by a series of powerful novels that depict the lives of rural southerners. After “South Moon Under”, she wrote “Golden Apples” (1935), “The Yearling” (1938), “When the Whippoorwill” (1940), “Cross Creek” (1942), “The Sojourner” (1953), and “The Secret River” (1955). “The Yearling” won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1939, cementing Rawlings’s status as a noteworthy American author.
Her writing often revolved around the themes of survival, human resilience, and the complex relationship between man and nature. Rawlings’s novels resonated with readers, thanks to her knack for capturing the subtleties of southern life and the raw, untamed beauty of the Florida landscape.
Five Best Books by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Their Brief Descriptions
- “The Yearling”: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the heartrending story of a young boy, Jody Baxter, and his pet deer, Flag. Set in the Florida backwoods, the book explores themes of youth, innocence, love, and loss.
- “Cross Creek”: A semi-autobiographical work, “Cross Creek” provides a glimpse into Rawlings’s life in rural Florida. The book paints a vivid picture of the land, the people, and the simple joys and challenges of country living.
- “South Moon Under”: Rawlings’s debut novel provides an authentic portrayal of the lives of poor Floridians living in the scrub country. This book marked the beginning of her exploration into the human struggle for survival in a harsh landscape.
- “The Sojourner”: In this novel, Rawlings shifts her focus from the South to the Midwest, tracing the life of Asahel Linden as he grapples with the death of his beloved mother and the complexities of familial relationships.
- “The Secret River”: Rawlings’s final work is a charming tale of a young girl, Calpurnia, who embarks on a quest to find a magical river. It’s a beautiful exploration of childhood, imagination, and the magic of nature.
The Last Book by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
“The Secret River,” published posthumously in 1955, was Rawlings’s final work. It was a departure from her previous novels, offering readers a more whimsical and optimistic tale. Despite being her last book, it retained the essence of Rawlings’s storytelling—her profound love for nature and her ability to create relatable, endearing characters.
Intriguing Tidbits about Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s Life
Rawlings’s life was as interesting as her novels. She was an avid cook and even published a cookbook, “Cross Creek Cookery,” featuring southern recipes. Her love for nature extended to her personal life—she owned a pet raccoon named Coe. Rawlings also had a tumultuous love life; she divorced Charles Rawlings in 1933 and later married hotelier Norton S. Baskin in 1941.
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s Love Life and Friendships
Rawlings’s personal life was marked by significant relationships that shaped her as a person and a writer. Her first marriage to Charles Rawlings ended due to their differing lifestyles—he preferred city life while she was drawn to the country. She later married Norton S. Baskin, who respected her need for solitude and supported her writing career.
Her friendships, too, were important. Rawlings maintained a close relationship with her editor, Maxwell Perkins, who played a crucial role in her literary journey. She was also friends with fellow authors Zora Neale Hurston and Ernest Hemingway.
Was Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Rich or Poor?
Rawlings was not born into wealth. Her early years in Florida were marked by financial struggles. However, the success of her novels, particularly “The Yearling,” brought her financial stability. While money was not a driving factor for Rawlings, her success allowed her to continue living and writing in the rural South, which she loved.
Famous Quotes by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
Rawlings’s writing is memorable not only for its vivid descriptions and compelling narratives but also for its insightful quotes. Here are a few:
- “I do not understand how anyone can live without some small place of enchantment to turn to.” – “Cross Creek”
- “We cannot live without the Earth or apart from it, and something is shrivelled in a man’s heart when he turns away from it and concerns himself only with the affairs of men.” – “The Sojourner”
- “Times are not good here. The city is crumbling into ashes. It has been buried under taxes and frauds and maladministrations…” – “Golden Apples”
Main Places Where Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s Books Are Set
The setting of Rawlings’s novels is integral to her storytelling. Most of her stories are set in the rural South, particularly in the Florida scrub country. Places like Cross Creek, Island Grove, and the Ocala National Forest feature prominently in her novels. These locations, with their unique landscapes and flora and fauna, serve as a backdrop against which her characters’ lives unfold.
The Screen Adaptation of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s Works
Rawlings’s influence extends beyond literature to cinema. Her most famous novel, “The Yearling,” was adapted into a successful film in 1946, starring Gregory Peck and Jane Wyman. The film captured the essence of Rawlings’s story, earning two Academy Awards.
In 1983, a movie about Rawlings’s life, titled “Cross Creek,” was released. The film, starring Mary Steenburgen as Rawlings, offered a glimpse into the author’s life in rural Florida and her journey as a writer.
Other Artists Who Inspired Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
Rawlings drew inspiration from various sources. The writings of Ernest Hemingway and Thomas Hardy influenced her storytelling style. She admired Hemingway’s ability to convey profound emotions through simple, direct language and Hardy’s knack for creating compelling narratives set against rural landscapes.
Five Other Writers and Books to Read If You Liked Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
If you enjoyed Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s books, here are five authors whose works you might appreciate:
- Ernest Hemingway: Try “The Old Man and the Sea” for its simple yet profound storytelling.
- Thomas Hardy: “Far from the Madding Crowd” is a classic rural narrative.
- Zora Neale Hurston: “Their Eyes Were Watching God” offers a powerful exploration of the African American experience in the South.
- Willa Cather: “My íntonia” presents a vivid portrait of life on the American frontier.
- John Steinbeck: “The Grapes of Wrath” is a poignant tale of survival during the Great Depression.
Buying Guide & Gift Ideas for Fans of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
If you’re a fan of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings or shopping for one, consider these gift ideas:
- Books: A collection of Rawlings’s novels or a hardcover edition of “The Yearling” would make a wonderful gift.
- DVDs: The film adaptations of “The Yearling” and “Cross Creek” are great for movie nights.
- Cookbook: “Cross Creek Cookery” is perfect for those who love to cook or enjoy southern cuisine.
- Posters: A vintage poster of “The Yearling” movie or a framed print of a Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings quote would add a touch of nostalgia to any space.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s bio is a testament to her enduring legacy. Her compelling narratives, richly drawn characters, and evocative descriptions of the South have captivated readers for decades. Her influence extends beyond literature to cinema, with her works adapted into successful films. Rawlings’s life and works continue to inspire readers and writers, cementing her status as an integral part of American literary history.
