A celebrated author of novels, essays, and memoirs, known for her lyrical prose and exploration of American identity and history. Her works often delved into the human experience, love, and social justice.
Mary Lee Settle, a renowned American writer, is best known for her novel Blood Tie, which earned her the prestigious National Book Award in 1978. As a founder of the annual PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction, Settle's contributions to the literary world are undeniable.
Settle was born on July 29, 1918, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Joseph Edward and Rachel Tompkins Settle. Her childhood was spent in Pineville, Kentucky, and later in Florida, where her father, a civil engineer, participated in the design of Venice, Florida.
After two years at Sweet Briar College, Settle moved to New York City to pursue a career as an actress and model. She even tested for the part of Scarlett O'Hara in Gone with the Wind. In 1939, she married Englishman Rodney Weathersbee and moved to England, where she joined the British Women's Auxiliary Air Force during World War II.
Upon returning to the US, Settle began her writing career, drawing inspiration from her diverse experiences. She went on to teach at esteemed institutions such as Bard College, the Iowa Writers' Workshop, and the University of Virginia.
Settle's writing style defied categorization, as she explored a wide range of fields, including fiction, non-fiction, and historical writing. This versatility, although contributing to her unique voice, somewhat detracted from her authority as a writer in the eyes of some critics.
Settle married William L. Tazewell, an American writer and historian, in 1978, and remained with him until his death in 1999. Her son, Christopher Weathersbee, was born in 1940.
Mary Lee Settle's contributions to American literature are undeniable. Her writing legacy extends beyond her own works, as she inspired generations of writers through her teachings and founded the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction.
Settle's life and work serve as a testament to her resilience and determination, as she navigated the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated literary world. Her unique voice and perspective continue to captivate readers and inspire writers to this day.
Mary Lee Settle passed away on September 27, 2005, leaving behind a rich literary legacy. Her works continue to be celebrated and studied, ensuring her place in the annals of American literary history.
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