Today is the birthday of Pulitzer prize winning American author Willa Cather (7 December, 1873 – 24, April, 1947). Even though Cather is associated with the pioneer spirit, she lived most of her life in New York city.
1 ) Ms. Cather often lied about the year she was born in.
2 ) Despite her mother’s attempts to turn her into a “lady”, young Willa cut her hair and wore trousers, despite the norms at the time.
3 ) While attending the University of Nebraska, Ms. Cather dressed as a man and called herself “William”, her fictional twin brother.
4 ) Cather worked at McClure’s magazine as a managing editor. Author Sarah Orne Jewett advised her to quite her job and pursue writing.
5 ) Many of Cather’s characters are inspired by people she met in her youth.
6 ) Edith White and Willa Cather were in a relationship for 40 years. It is still unknown whether Cather was a lesbian or not (although there are subtexts in her writing which give us strong hints).
7 ) Cather’s name is associated with the pioneering spirit of the American West.
8 ) Cather’s novels feature mostly female characters contending with Midwest.
9 ) During her career Willa Cather enjoyed popular as well as critical success.
10) A portion of protected land the “Willa Cather Memorial Prairie” in Nebraska.
Zohar – Man of la Book
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This post was orginially published as: Fun Facts Friday: Willa Cather on 7 December, 2012
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When I was younger, living in Nebraska meant you would be required to read Cather at some point in school. Perhaps it was the rebel in me that just refused to enjoy something I was required to read, but I just didn't care for her. Now, upon rereading her stuff, I find I quite like it.