Oliver Goldsmith
Biography
Oliver Goldsmith (1728–1774) was an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet, a prominent figure of the Augustan Age. Born in County Longford, Ireland, he was the son of a clergyman. After a varied and somewhat unsuccessful education, including studying medicine in Edinburgh and Leiden, he eventually settled in London in 1756. There, he eked out a living through journalism, producing a vast quantity of essays, reviews, and biographical works, often for meager pay. Despite persistent financial struggles and a somewhat bohemian lifestyle, he achieved considerable literary success with works like the philosophical novel 'The Vicar of Wakefield' (1766), the pastoral poem 'The Deserted Village' (1770), and the enduringly popular comedy 'She Stoops to Conquer' (1773). He was a member of 'The Club,' associating with literary giants like Samuel Johnson and Edmund Burke.
Selected Thoughts
«The first object of pity, is to be pitied.»
«A book may be amusing with numerous errors, or it may be dull without a single absurdity.»
«The only way to make a man honest is to make him believe it impossible that you should suspect him.»
Writing Style
Goldsmith's writing style is characterized by its elegant simplicity, clarity, and often sentimental yet incisive wit. He masterfully blended humor with pathos, employing a graceful prose that was accessible and engaging. His works often feature a moralistic undertone, advocating for virtue and criticizing the excesses of society, yet presented with a gentle satire and profound humanity. He excelled in creating memorable characters and vivid descriptions, whether depicting rural idylls or urban follies, often reflecting a nostalgic longing for simpler times.