Ronald Firbank

English novelist Ronald Firbank (1886-1926) was renowned for his unique and avant-garde approach to writing. Firbank was born in London on January 17, 1886, into a prosperous family. He attended Uppingham School for his early education, however he departed before finishing his studies. He then made a great deal of travel throughout Europe, absorbing different cultural influences. Firbank is known for his flamboyant, caustic humour, and unique writing style. His books frequently make light...See more

English novelist Ronald Firbank (1886-1926) was renowned for his unique and avant-garde approach to writing. Firbank was born in London on January 17, 1886, into a prosperous family. He attended Uppingham School for his early education, however he departed before finishing his studies. He then made a great deal of travel throughout Europe, absorbing different cultural influences. Firbank is known for his flamboyant, caustic humour, and unique writing style. His books frequently make light-hearted and non-traditional use of language to humorously and ironically explore the lifestyles of the upper class British people. Despite having a brief literary career (he died at the age of 40), Firbank had a significant influence on modernist writing. His impact can be seen most clearly in the writings of following authors like Evelyn Waugh and W. H. Auden. Firbank's books are still valued for their uniqueness and humour even if they are frequently cited as forerunners of the fantastical and surreal literary genres of the latter 20th century. Even though Ronald Firbank did not enjoy great fame during his lifetime, he is today acknowledged as a significant member of the literary avant-garde of the early 20th century. See less