Biography
Sax Rohmer (born Arthur Henry Ward; February 15, 1883 – June 1, 1959) was a British author best known for creating the character of Dr. Fu Manchu, a sinister Chinese criminal mastermind who became a cultural icon in the early 20th century. Born in Birmingham, England, to Irish immigrant parents, Rohmer developed an early interest in writing, particularly focusing on themes of mysticism and the occult.
Before adopting his famous pseudonym, Rohmer worked as a songwriter and scriptwriter for music hall performers. He began using the name Sax Rohmer in 1912, and his first novel featuring Dr. Fu Manchu, The Mystery of Dr. Fu-Manchu, was published in 1913. The novel's success led to a series of sequels, solidifying Fu Manchu as a symbol of the "Yellow Peril" in Western literature.
Throughout his career, Rohmer wrote numerous novels and short stories, many featuring exotic settings and themes of crime and adventure. Despite criticism for perpetuating racial stereotypes, his works were immensely popular and have been adapted into various films, radio serials, and television shows.
Rohmer was also a student of the occult and wrote several non-fiction works on the subject, including The Romance of Sorcery (1914). He passed away on June 1, 1959, in London, leaving behind a controversial yet impactful literary legacy.
Trivia About Sax Rohmer
- Rohmer's real name was Arthur Henry Ward; he adopted the pen name Sax Rohmer in 1912.
- He was a friend of the famous escapologist Harry Houdini, who praised Rohmer's work on the occult.
- Rohmer's character Dr. Fu Manchu has been featured in numerous adaptations, including films, radio, and television series.
- Despite his success with the Fu Manchu series, Rohmer also wrote other works, such as The Orchard of Tears, which delved into more philosophical themes.
Famous Quotes by Sax Rohmer
- "The will is the master; the imagination the tool."
- "He knows the art of making himself necessary."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Sax Rohmer?
Sax Rohmer was the pen name of British author Arthur Henry Ward, best known for creating the character Dr. Fu Manchu, a sinister Chinese mastermind featured in a series of novels and adaptations.
What is 'The Mystery of Dr. Fu-Manchu'?
The Mystery of Dr. Fu-Manchu is the first novel in the Fu Manchu series, published in 1913. It introduced readers to the nefarious Dr. Fu Manchu and his conflicts with British authorities.
Did Sax Rohmer write other works besides the Fu Manchu series?
Yes, Rohmer authored numerous other novels and short stories, often featuring exotic locales and themes of mysticism and adventure. He also wrote non-fiction works on the occult.
Related Literary Movements
Sax Rohmer's works are associated with early 20th-century pulp fiction and the "Yellow Peril" genre, reflecting Western anxieties about East Asian influence. His writing also intersects with adventure and mystery genres popular during that era.
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