Elizabeth Hardwick was a trailblazer in the literary world, crafting a name for herself through novels, essays, and an esteemed biography of Herman Melville at the age of eighty-four. Her influence was not limited to her own writing, as she also played a crucial role in launching The New York Review of Books in 1963. With literature at the heart of her endeavors, Hardwick's life was a testament to her passion for both creating and critiquing the written word.

Early Life and Education

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, on July 27, 1916, Elizabeth Hardwick was one of several children in a large family. Her parents, Eugene and Mary Hardwick, were diligent individuals who, despite their limited financial resources, instilled a strong work ethic in their children. Early on, Elizabeth developed a love for reading and by the time she graduated from Henry Clay High School, she was determined to pursue a career in literature. She attended the University of Kentucky, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1938, followed by a Master's degree a year later.

Move to New York and Initial Struggles

Like many aspiring writers of her time, Hardwick moved to New York City to further her literary ambitions. She enrolled at Columbia University to pursue a doctorate in English literature. However, she soon realized that a Ph.D. would not necessarily lead to a teaching position, as few women were being hired for such roles at the time. Choosing to leave academia, Hardwick redirected her energies solely to writing, a decision that set the stage for her future accomplishments.

First Novel and Emerging Recognition

Hardwick's debut novel, The Ghostly Lover, was published in 1945. This semi-autobiographical work delves into the complexities of familial relationships and communication within a middle-class setting. Despite receiving a mixed reception from critics, the novel's subtle wit and insight caught the attention of magazine editors, opening doors for Hardwick to contribute shorter pieces for publication.

Short Stories and Personal Milestones

During the decade following her first novel, Hardwick made significant strides professionally and personally. She penned several acclaimed short stories, including “People on a Roller Coaster” and “What We Have Missed,” both of which were honored with inclusion in the O. Henry Memorial Award Prize Stories. In 1948, her talents were further recognized with a Guggenheim Fellowship in fiction. The following year, she married poet Robert Lowell, a prominent figure in the literary community.

Exploration of Nonfiction

As Hardwick continued to refine her fiction writing skills, she found herself gravitating towards nonfiction. Her interest in social and political issues naturally led her to the essay form, a genre through which she made a lasting impact. In her autobiographical notes for World Authors: 1950-1970, she remarked that her concerns "inevitably" drew her to this style of writing, which ultimately became her most celebrated contribution to American literature.

Second Novel and Shift to Essays

Published in 1955, her second novel, The Simple Truth, met with varied critical reactions. The narrative, centered around a murder trial of a destitute student, was both praised for its complex plotting and criticized for its perplexing storyline. Following this publication, Hardwick took a hiatus from fiction to focus on the essay form, which she found both intellectually satisfying and commercially viable.

Family Life and Editorial Ventures

The birth of her daughter, Harriet Winslow Lowell, in 1957 brought new responsibilities into Hardwick's life. Balancing her roles as a mother and writer, she shifted her interests towards publishing. In 1963, she co-founded The New York Review of Books , a publication committed to delivering in-depth reviews and discussions...