Good day, readers. Today is December 11th, the 346th day of the year 2024, with 19 days remaining.
“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants.” — Isaac Newton
Today in Literary History:
On this day in 1936, King Edward VIII of the United Kingdom officially abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, a twice-divorced American socialite. This dramatic event, which shook the British monarchy and captivated the world, has been the subject of numerous books, films, and plays, exploring themes of love, duty, and sacrifice.
Notable Birthdays:
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, born on December 11, 1918, was a Russian novelist, historian, and critic of Soviet totalitarianism. His works, including The Gulag Archipelago and One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, exposed the brutal realities of the Soviet labor camps and earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1970.
Today’s Readings:
From The Gulag Archipelago by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn: “The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either—but right through every human heart.”
Literary Fact of the Day:
On December 11th, 1964, the Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded to Jean-Paul Sartre, who famously declined the prize, stating that a writer should not allow himself to be turned into an institution. This moment sparked global debate about the role of the writer and the relationship between art and recognition.
Advice for Writers:
Isaac Newton’s words remind us that our advancements are often built upon the knowledge and achievements of those who came before us. In your writing, consider the influences that shape your characters—whether it’s the legacy of their ancestors, mentors, or the historical context in which they live. How do these “giants” impact their decisions and their paths? Let this reflection add depth and complexity to your storytelling.
Wishing you a day of insightful writing and inspired creativity, dear readers. Until tomorrow, may your words honor the giants upon whose shoulders we all stand, as you continue to see further in your own literary journey.