Creator of the iconic Conan the Barbarian character, known for his influential fantasy stories and poetry that have shaped the sword and sorcery genre.
If you're a fan of sword-wielding heroes, mythical creatures, and epic quests, then you owe a debt of gratitude to Robert E. Howard, the trailblazing American writer who created the iconic character Conan the Barbarian and fathered the sword and sorcery subgenre.
Howard was born on January 22, 1906, in Peaster, Texas, to a family of modest means. His early life was marked by a love for reading and writing, with a special fascination for mythology, history, and adventure stories. This eclectic mix of interests would later influence his writing style and the creation of his legendary characters.
At the tender age of 23, Howard's writing career took off, with his stories being published in various magazines, journals, and newspapers. His big break came when he created Conan the Barbarian, a powerful and charismatic hero who would go on to become an cultural icon. Conan's adventures, set in the fictional land of Hyboria, captivated readers and spawned a new genre of fantasy writing.
During his short but remarkable career, Howard wrote prolifically, producing over 100 stories, poems, and articles. His work was published in prominent magazines like Weird Tales, which served as a launching pad for many of his Conan stories. Howard's innovative approach to storytelling, which blended elements of mythology, history, and fantasy, raised the bar for fantasy writers and inspired a new generation of authors.
Tragically, Howard's life was cut short when he took his own life at the age of 30, following the coma of his mother, who had struggled with tuberculosis throughout her life. This heartbreaking event shocked his fans and fellow writers, leaving a void in the literary world that would take years to fill.
Despite his untimely passing, Howard's legacy continued to grow, with his stories being rediscovered and reprinted in the decades following his death. Today, he is hailed as one of the most influential fantasy writers of all time, inspiring countless authors, artists, and filmmakers. His creations, including Conan, have become an integral part of popular culture, with adaptations in film, television, and comics.
Howard's work often explored themes of individualism, courage, and the human condition, reflecting his own philosophical beliefs. His stories frequently pitted heroes against powerful forces of darkness, highlighting the importance of personal honor, loyalty, and sacrifice. These ideals continue to resonate with readers and inspire new generations of writers.
Howard's impact on popular culture extends far beyond the fantasy genre. His creations have influenced art, music, and film, with Conan becoming a cultural icon. His stories have also inspired countless writers, including J.R.R. Tolkien, H.P. Lovecraft, and George R.R. Martin, among others.
Howard's life and death have been the subject of much speculation and debate, with some attributing his suicide to mental health issues or the decline of the pulp fiction market. While these theories remain controversial, there is no denying the profound impact Howard's work has had on the literary world and popular culture.
_"I have no quarrel with the universe, but I will fight it to the death if it gets in my way."_ - Robert E. Howard
Today, Robert E. Howard's legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, cementing his place as one of the most beloved and influential fantasy writers of all time.
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