Glenway Wescott’s life unfolds in two contrasting chapters. Born on a farm in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, on April 11, 1901, his early life was steeped in pastoral simplicity, yet marked by a deep bond with his mother who encouraged his passions for music, acting, and literature. This nurturing environment stood in stark contrast to his strained relationship with his father, who grew disappointed with Glenway’s aversion to farm duties.

Early Frictions and Scholarly Pursuits

Glenway’s adolescence was marred by conflict with his father, particularly after a seemingly minor event at age thirteen escalated tensions. Consequently, he was passed between relatives, eventually staying with his father’s brother, William Samuel Wescott, a preacher. This living arrangement proved transformative as Glenway delved into his uncle’s extensive library, expanding his horizons through both personal exploration and participation in a high school literary society.

From Farm to City: A Transition in Perspective

By sixteen, Glenway’s life had diverged significantly from that of his rural peers. Following his high school graduation in 1917, he moved to Chicago, residing with the affluent mother of his uncle’s wife while attending the University of Chicago. Initially indifferent to a literary career, his disdain for mandatory classes led him to experiment with literature courses, igniting a passion that drew him into the university’s Poetry Club. This experience honed his ability to capture and convey vivid imagery, a skill that would become a hallmark of his later work.

Trials and Triumphs: The New Mexico Years

Wescott’s life took a dramatic turn in 1918 when he traveled to New Mexico to recuperate from a failed romantic relationship, which had driven him to the brink of despair. During his recovery, he turned his experiences into poetry, culminating in the publication of The Bitterns. His work caught the attention of Harriet Monroe, who employed him at Poetry magazine in 1921, marking the beginning of his professional writing journey. His debut short story, “Bad Han,” appeared the same year, showcasing his burgeoning narrative talent.

European Influence and Literary Success

The summer of 1921 saw Wescott venture to Europe with his companion Monroe Wheeler, a pivotal period that spanned over a decade and catapulted him into prominence. His European sojourn birthed notable works including two novels, The Apple of the Eye and The Grandmothers, along with a short story collection, Good-bye, Wisconsin. Despite these successes, his attempts at non-fiction—Fear and Trembling and A Calendar of Saints for Unbelievers—were met with less enthusiasm.

A Return to Roots and Renewed Creativity

Feeling trapped in Europe, Wescott returned to America in 1933, making New York his home. The transition initially stifled his creativity; however, the outbreak of World War II rekindled his literary spirit. This renewed vigor resulted in The Pilgrim Hawk: A Love Story in 1940, a work that defied critics who believed his creative well had run dry. In 1945, he penned Apartment in Athens, reaffirming his value to his publisher and the literary community.

The Final Chapter: Essays and Legacy

Following the acclaim of Apartment in Athens, Wescott refrained from producing further fiction, though he embarked on various unfinished projects. His 1962 essay collection, Images of Truth, solidified his reputation as an esteemed critic, appealing to cultured general readers more than to the academic elite. His insightful portraits of six admired authors offered a window into his own creative process. Although his fans longed for a grand novel, his essays eloquently encapsulated his devotion to literature, marking a poignant conclusion to his career.