Today marks the anniversary of Harper Lee’s passing, and we honour and commemorate the incredible impact she made in the world of literature.
Nelle Harper Lee (28 April 28 April 1926 – 19 February 19 February 2016) was born in Monroeville, Alabama. She not only contributed to literature through her innovative style of writing but also reminded us of the power of storytelling to change societal norms.
To Kill a Mockingbird
Harper Lee is widely recognized as an essential figure in American literature. Her groundbreaking work “To Kill a Mockingbird” was first published in 1960 and won a Pulitzer Prize award.
Since then, it has become a timeless classic, exploring themes of racial injustice and moral development in the American South during the 1930s.
Harper Lee portrayed Atticus Finch, who challenged societal norms and sparked debate on race and morality. The author’s ability to capture the complexities of human nature resonated with readers across borders, making “To Kill a Mockingbird” an International bestseller studied in literature classes worldwide.
The novel stayed on the bestselling list for 88 weeks and has sold more than 30 million copies in 18 languages.
Monroeville, Alabama, and Its Influence
When questioned if “To Kill A Mockingbird” was autobiographical, Harper Lee denied that while the story is not a recounting of her life experiences, her childhood experiences with her brother, sisters, and his friend Truman Capote certainly influenced and moulded her novel.
In an interview, she said, “We didn’t have toys, nothing was done for us, so the result was that we lived in our imagination most of the time.”
Embracing Full-Time Writing Career
After working at a bookstore in New York, Lee then took a job as an airline reservations clerk. It was a demanding profession, but somehow, she managed to spare time for her writing routines in the evenings.
With the support from one of her friends, she took the leap of faith and quit her job to focus on writing full-time.
Over the years, despite personal hardships, including the loss of her mother and sibling, she focused on perfecting her novel. In 1959, Lee completed her manuscript, marking a significant milestone in her writing journey.
Go Set A Watchman by Harper Lee
Her next novel, “Go Set A Watchman”, was published after decades in 2015 by Harper Collins. According to Amazon, it was the most pre-ordered book since the Harry Potter novel series. Book outlets also saw high demand from Lee’s readers. Stores arranged all-night openings at midnight.
Additionally, the book set a record for the highest adult novel one-day sales, including digital sales.
Sequel To “To Kill The Mocking Bird”? Set A Watchman Controversy
Harper Lee once said that she would not be publishing another novel. She was in poor health, ill and living in a home for people who need a lot of care. But soon after that, her lawyer announced the publication of “Go Set A Watchman.”
Her lawyer, Tonja Carter, was in complete control of her affairs and was involved in the publication of the work.
People are surprised if Lee was genuinely okay with all of this. Due to poor health, she passed away the following year on 19 February 19 February, 2016.
Go Set A Watchman: Response From Readers
It is said that the book was a draft and still needs to be fully completed. The release of the novel has been criticized.
Also, the book itself was initially a draft, not meant to be a new Harper Lee novel. Its release as such has been criticized. A bookstore owner went as far as offering refunds to the readers who felt deceived by the misleading marketing of the book as a sequel.
It is now suggested as an insight into Harper Lee’s writing process rather than a standalone new story.
Despite any disagreements or debates surrounding her work, Harper Lee’s significant impact on the world of literature continues to endure.
As we commemorate her passing, we pay tribute to her lasting legacy and the profound influence she has had on literary history.
