Meredith Nicholson

Meredith Nicholson

Meredith Nicholson
1866 -1947

Meredith Nicholson Biography

Meredith Nicholson (December 9, 1866 – December 21, 1947) was a prominent American author, poet, and diplomat, best known for his novels that encapsulate the essence of early 20th-century American society. Born in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Nicholson moved to Indianapolis in 1872. His formal education was limited, as traditional schooling did not suit him, leading to a largely self-taught literary journey.

           

Nicholson began his career in journalism, joining the Indianapolis Sentinel in 1884 and moving to the Indianapolis News the following year, where he worked until 1897. His transition to literature saw the publication of Short Flights in 1891, marking the start of a prolific writing period. Among his notable works, The House of a Thousand Candles (1905) stands out, achieving bestseller status and solidifying his reputation as a distinguished novelist.

           

Throughout his career, Nicholson authored 29 books, including The Port of Missing Men (1907) and A Hoosier Chronicle (1912). His writings often blended romance, mystery, and social commentary, reflecting his keen observation of society. Alongside contemporaries like Booth Tarkington, George Ade, and James Whitcomb Riley, Nicholson contributed to Indiana's literary golden age in the early 20th century.

           

In addition to his literary achievements, Nicholson was active in politics as a member of the Democratic Party. He served as a city councilman in Indianapolis from 1928 to 1930. His political involvement led to diplomatic appointments as the U.S. Minister to Paraguay (1933–1934), Venezuela (1935–1938), and Nicaragua (1938–1941). Nicholson passed away on December 21, 1947, in Indianapolis, leaving a lasting legacy in American literature and diplomacy.

           

Trivia About Meredith Nicholson

  • Nicholson was largely self-educated, having ended formal schooling at an early age due to its incompatibility with his learning style.
  • He was part of Indiana's literary golden age, alongside authors like Booth Tarkington and James Whitcomb Riley.
  • Nicholson's novel The House of a Thousand Candles was adapted into multiple films.
  • He served as the U.S. Minister to three different countries in Latin America during the 1930s.
           

Famous Quotes by Meredith Nicholson

  • "We must get back to a spiritual basis for living; we must live more nearly as we pray."
  • "When the world makes a demand upon you, it is because you are capable of meeting it."
           

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Meredith Nicholson?

Meredith Nicholson was an American author, poet, and diplomat, renowned for his novels that depict early 20th-century American life. He was a key figure in Indiana's literary golden age.

           

What are some of Meredith Nicholson's notable works?

Some of his notable works include The House of a Thousand Candles (1905), The Port of Missing Men (1907), and A Hoosier Chronicle (1912).

           

What diplomatic roles did Meredith Nicholson serve?

Nicholson served as the U.S. Minister to Paraguay (1933–1934), Venezuela (1935–1938), and Nicaragua (1938–1941).

           

Related Literary Movements

Meredith Nicholson was associated with the Indiana literary renaissance of the early 20th century, contributing significantly to the state's cultural heritage through his novels and essays.

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