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Life of William Golding

  • Birth

    Birth
    William Golding was born in Saint Columb Minor, Cornwall, England. (was born near a cemetery)
  • Tries to write a book

    Tries to write a book
    When William was just 12 years old, he attempted, unsuccessfully, to write a novel. (Months & exact date unknown)
  • Published poems

    Published poems
    William published his first work, a book of poetry entitled Poems which was overlooked by critics. Wasn't a successful book
  • Graduation

    Graduation
    William went on to attend Brasenose College at Oxford University. His father hoped he would become a scientist, but William opted to study English literature instead
  • Teaching English & Philopshy

    Teaching English &   Philopshy
    In 1935 Golding took a position teaching English and philosophy at Bishop Wordsworth’s School in Salisbury. (Golding’s experience teaching unruly young boys would later serve as inspiration for his novel Lord of the Flies.)
  • Navy!

    Navy!
    1940 Golding temporarily abandoned the profession to join the Royal Navy and fight in World War II.
  • Back to teaching

    Back to teaching
    after World War II had ended, Golding went back to teaching and writing.