An Autobiography of Anthony Trollope - From Postal Clerk to Literary Giant: The Candid Journey of a Victorian Novelist

"An Autobiography of Anthony Trollope" offers readers an intimate glimpse into the life and mind of one of Victorian England's most prolific and beloved novelists. In this candid memoir, Trollope recounts his journey from a struggling youth to a celebrated author, providing invaluable insights into his creative process and the literary world of the 19th century.

Trollope's narrative begins with his challenging childhood, marked by financial difficulties and struggles at school. He then details his early career in the postal service, a profession that would influence his writing and provide him with a wealth of observational material. The author's account of his time in Ireland is particularly fascinating, as it was there that he began his literary career in earnest.

The heart of the autobiography lies in Trollope's detailed description of his writing methods. He famously reveals his disciplined approach, writing a set number of words each day before attending to his postal duties. This glimpse into his creative routine offers aspiring writers valuable lessons in productivity and perseverance.

Trollope doesn't shy away from discussing the commercial aspects of his career, openly addressing issues of money and success in a way that was considered scandalous by some of his contemporaries. His frank discussion of the business of writing provides a unique perspective on the Victorian literary marketplace.

This work is essential reading for fans of classic literature, offering insights into the creation of beloved novels such as "The Warden" and "Barchester Towers". Students of Victorian culture will find a wealth of information about the social and literary landscape of the era. For those interested in the craft of writing, Trollope's autobiography serves as both a historical document and a timeless guide to the writer's life.

About the author

Anthony Trollope (1815-1882) was one of the most successful and prolific novelists of the Victorian era. Born in London to a struggling barrister and a writer mother, Trollope's early life was marked by financial hardship and academic difficulties. However, these challenges would later inform his insightful portrayals of English society in his novels.

Trollope's career took a significant turn when he joined the General Post Office in 1834. His work in the postal service, including a long stint in Ireland, provided him with a steady income and exposed him to a wide range of human experiences that would later populate his fiction. It was during his time in Ireland that Trollope began his writing career in earnest, publishing his first novels while still working for the post office.

Known for his prolific output, Trollope wrote over 40 novels, as well as numerous short stories, travel books, and works of non-fiction. His most famous works include the Barsetshire series and the Palliser novels, which offer a panoramic view of Victorian political and ecclesiastical life. Trollope's writing is characterized by its realism, humor, and astute observations of human nature.

In addition to his literary achievements, Trollope is credited with introducing the pillar box to Britain during his time with the postal service. His autobiography, published posthumously in 1883, caused controversy with its frank discussion of the business of writing, but has since become a valuable resource for understanding the Victorian literary world.

Trollope's legacy as a keen observer of society and a master of the realist novel continues to influence writers and readers alike, cementing his place as one of the great chroniclers of Victorian England.

Product details

• Authors: Anthony Trollope
• Publisher: BoD - Books on Demand
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 07.04.2025
• EAN: 9782322516001
• ISBN: 978-2-3225-1600-1
• No. of pages: 184
• Dimensions: 148 mm x 210 mm x 14 mm
• Weight: 275 g
• Subject: Fiction > Narrative literature