Author: J. G. Farrell
Books
The Siege of Krishnapur | 1973 | |
Troubles | 1970 Lost |
J. G. Farrell, born James Gordon Farrell on January 23, 1935, in Liverpool, England, was a distinguished British novelist known for his acute ability to blend historical context with rich and complex narratives. Educated at Brasenose College, Oxford, Farrell's literary career blossomed despite personal challenges, including a severe bout of polio that deeply impacted his life and writing. This experience is subtly woven into some of his works, reflecting his resilience and introspective nature.
Farrell's novels are often characterized by their satirical edge and intricate exploration of the decline of the British Empire, a theme most vividly depicted in his celebrated Empire Trilogy. Comprising "Troubles" (1970), "The Siege of Krishnapur" (1973), and "The Singapore Grip" (1978), the trilogy expertly examines colonialism's waning influence. Through his evocative prose, Farrell not only entertained readers but also prompted them to ponder the complex interplay of power, culture, and identity.
Tragically, Farrell's life was cut short on August 11, 1979, when he drowned in a fishing accident in Ireland. His legacy, however, endures through his impactful body of work, which continues to inspire and provoke critical thought about the past and its resonance in contemporary times.