William Faulkner

        William Faulkner was born in New Albany, Mississippi on September 25, 1897. He was the oldest of four sons, coming from a family that had deep southern roots. He was very interested in stories at a young age and several years later, he began writing. Faulkner was also highly intelligent, dropping out of high school his junior year due to boredom. He attended the University of Mississippi and while he didn't earn a degree, he is considered an alumni.

        Faulkner was a very determined individual, this was shown when he attempted to join the US Air Force. He was rejected due to his inadequate height and joined the Canadian Air Force instead, changing the spelling of his name to suggest British origins. He never ended up in combat, but upon his return home, he told embellished war stories of his time in service.

        Faulkner had a very clear understanding of the south, where he had spent most of his life. He had grown up with racism and discrimination, still Faulkner's views on human nature remained positive. When Faulkner was awarded the Nobel prize in literature for the Sound and the Fury he was reluctant to attend the award ceremony. He strongly believed that literature belong to the reader and showing his sincere belief in his writing. His characters faced challenges to find their dignity, but in the end Faulkner believed that humanity would "prevail." (Nobel Prize speech-William Faulkner).