Classic Authors: E.M. Forster

Even if you have never heard of Edward Morgan (E.M.) Forster, you have probably seen a movie based on one of his books. Since all but one of the novels he wrote has been adapted for the screen, most people have become somewhat acquainted with this talented writer. Although Hollywood captures the essence of E.M.'s stories, you can't understand his immense skill unless you actually read his work. After delving into his writing, you will discover why his name is planted solidly among those of the best British writers of all time.

Edward Morgan Forster was born on January 1, 1879, in London, England, to Edward Morgan Llewellyn Forster and Alice Clara ("Lily") Wichelo Forster. His parents actually named him Henry, after an uncle, but he was accidently baptized with the name Edward, after his father. The elder Edward Forster, an architect, died of consumption soon after E.M.'s birth. Thus, the writer matured under the care of his mother and his great-aunt, Marianne Thornton. He spent many of his childhood years living at Rooksnest, which became the inspiration for another estate, Howards End.

The boy's schooling began in private institutions, where he was teased cruelly. The verbal abuse caused him to remain shy and timid throughout his life. E.M. later attended King's College, Cambridge, where he joined the Apostles, a secret society of intellectuals. During this time, he began contributing essays and stories to the newly-created Independent Review.

After completing his studies, E.M. traveled widely, visiting Greece, Italy and India. From 1915 to 1919, he served with the Red Cross in Alexandria, Egypt. He remained an avid traveler throughout his life; his visits in different places gave him abundant ideas for stories and settings. Life in England also provided creative opportunities; it was there that he made friends among those of the "Bloomsbury" set, including Virginia Woolf.

E.M. Forster published four novels in rapid succession: Where Angels Fear to Tread(1905), The Longest Journey(1907), A Room With a View(1908), and Howards End(1910). He published A Passage to India in 1924, and two of his novels–Maurice(1971) and Arctic Summer(1980)–appeared posthumously. The writer also authored many essays and short stories.

Throughout his lifetime, E.M. Forster received abundant awards and accolades. In 1934, he became the first president of the National Council for Civil Liberties. Fifteen years later, he refused a knighthood. In 1946, he received an honorary fellowship from Cambridge, which enabled him to remain there for the rest of his life. Several years later in 1953, Queen Elizabeth II awarded E.M. with a membership in the Order of Companions of Honour. On his 90th birthday, he received an Order of Merit.

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