The March 13th. Program Summary.....

Most foreign translated American author, Member Bohemian Club, published 50 books in 5 years:  Why has Jack London eluded accolades from the American Literary community?  Why is his legacy considered ”Contested Fame”?

Our speaker, Susan Nuernberg, Ph.D.  and world authority on Jack London provided the case for London’s domestic critic’s disdain. 

While Jack London wrote from roots in his extensive occupational and travel experience, he only authored one autobiographic work per se, “Martin Eden” in 1909, and implied in “John Barleycorn” in 1913.  His critics, mostly East Coast schooled, from privileged upbringing, did not accept the likes of London, deemed illegitimate at birth, raised many years in poverty~ which he overcame ~, and as an early twentieth century Socialist, did not conform to the American Literary stereotype likes of contemporary natives Wm. James, T.S. Elliott or Stephen Crane.  Jack was haunted by his non-traditional past:  His London surname came from stepfather, John London.  Jack’s biological father, Wm. Chaney, an itinerant Astrologer lived with Flora Wellman, Jack London’s mother, a Spiritualist~( Is this beginning to sound like a soap opera? ) His natural parents unorthodox careers were to Jack, “nonsense”, and he rejected them, and ventured out in his own pursuit of fulfillment on a very pragmatic course.

Susan weaved a cogent argument for Jack’s shunning by the American literary pens.  He was, in addition to his foreign popularity, immensely successful financially.  This was not a criterion for acclaim by the East Coast establishment.  Jack’s style is referred to as a Dual Writing Technique:  Express enjoyment and understanding of Life.  His philosophy of life was based on learning to read, then reading to learn (he was largely self educated, attended Cal Berkeley but dropped out) discuss, be original, put your own mark on your work.   Study history, biography, philosophy, learn to skim literature and be discriminating; read the best authors. 

Would Jack make today’s bestseller’s list, be invited to contribute to The New Yorker?  Susan suggests some of today’s Jack Londons:  Controversial Sailor- Oracle Founder Larry Ellison, Wine Country celebrity & mansion builder Robin Williams, commentator John Stewart.

If you are curious about our local icon, consider joining the book club discussion group at his namesake state park in nearby Glen Ellen, March 21.  Susan welcomes your literary participation!