Joseph Conrad

Joseph Conrad, born Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski in 1857, experienced a tumultuous childhood marked by his parents’ involvement in Polish nationalism and their subsequent hardships under Russian rule. After losing both parents by age eleven, Conrad pursued a career at sea, finding solace and inspiration for his future literary works during his fifteen-year stint in the British Merchant Navy. His debut novel, "Almayer’s Folly," marked the beginning of a writing career distinguished by its unique perspective as a non-native English speaker.

Conrad’s literary legacy includes acclaimed works such as "Heart of Darkness," influenced by his Congo expedition, and novels like "Lord Jim" and "Nostromo," praised for their exploration of existential themes and complex characters. Despite initial criticism for his style, Conrad’s evocative storytelling and themes of identity and morality continue to resonate in modern literature. His later life saw personal successes, including his marriage to Jessie George and his significant commercial triumph with "Chance." Conrad’s impact on literature endures, bridging cultures and narratives in a way that reflects his lifelong journey from a troubled youth to a celebrated author.