William N. Harben Biography
William Nathaniel Harben (July 5, 1858 – August 7, 1919) was an American novelist best known for his realistic depictions of life in Northern Georgia. Born in Dalton, Georgia, to affluent parents, Harben developed an early interest in writing. He worked as a merchant in his hometown, which allowed him to closely observe the local mountain communities that would later feature prominently in his works.
In 1889, Harben published his first novel, White Marie, a melodramatic story about a white girl raised in slavery. The novel's success prompted him to relocate to New York City, though he maintained strong ties to Georgia, often spending summers in Dalton. Throughout the 1890s, Harben experimented with various genres, including religious themes in Almost Persuaded (1890), romance in A Mute Confessor (1892), and science fiction in The Land of the Changing Sun (1894). He also penned detective novels featuring the sleuth Minard Hendricks.
Harben's literary acclaim peaked with the publication of Northern Georgia Sketches (1900), a collection of short stories that authentically portrayed the lives of Georgia "hillbillies." This work garnered the attention of esteemed author William Dean Howells, who became Harben's mentor and advocate. Harben continued to write prolifically, producing notable novels such as Abner Daniel (1902), Pole Baker (1905), and Ann Boyd (1906), each featuring memorable characters from the Georgian mountains.
Despite his success, Harben's works were sometimes critiqued for their sentimental romanticism, a characteristic prevalent in the literature of his era. Nevertheless, his authentic representation of Southern life and dialect remains a significant contribution to American literature. Harben passed away in New York City in 1919 at the age of 61.
Trivia About William N. Harben
- Harben's novel Almost Persuaded (1890) was so well received that Queen Victoria requested an autographed copy.
- He wrote a science fiction novel, The Land of the Changing Sun (1894), featuring an underground society illuminated by an artificial sun.
- Harben created the detective character Minard Hendricks, featured in three detective novels during the 1890s.
- He maintained a close friendship with author William Dean Howells, who praised Harben's portrayal of Southern life.
Famous Quotes by William N. Harben
- "The worst things I ever seen was sometimes at the root o’ the best. Manure is a bad thing, but a cake of it will produce a daisy bigger’n any in the field."
- "Well, boys, if I had to go, I’d like to be melted up into pure corn whiskey an’ poured through my throat till there wasn’t a drop left of me."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was William N. Harben?
William N. Harben was an American author known for his novels and short stories depicting the lives of Northern Georgia's mountain people in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
What are some of William N. Harben's notable works?
Some of his notable works include Northern Georgia Sketches (1900), Abner Daniel (1902), Pole Baker (1905), and Ann Boyd (1906).
What genre did William N. Harben primarily write in?
Harben primarily wrote realistic fiction focusing on the Southern United States, particularly the mountain communities of Northern Georgia. He also explored other genres, including science fiction and detective stories.
Related Literary Movements
William N. Harben's work is associated with the local color movement, which emphasized the depiction of specific regional characteristics and dialects. His realistic portrayal of Southern life contributes to the broader canon of American regional literature.
William N. Harben books
Title | Published |
---|---|
Westerfelt | 1901 |
The Land of the Changing Sun | 1894 |
Ann Boyd | 1906 |
Dixie Hart | 1910 |
The Hills of Refuge | |
The Desired Woman | |
The Cottage of Delight | 1919 |
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