author
Ivor John Carnegie Brown
1891–1974
A witty British journalist and critic, this remarkably prolific writer produced dozens of books on theatre, literature, language, and English life. His work ranges from Shakespeare and Victorian figures to lively essays and social observation, making him a rewarding guide to both books and the world around them.
1 Audiobook
Years of Plenty
by Ivor John Carnegie Brown
About the author
Born in Penang, Malaya, in 1891, he was educated at Cheltenham College and Balliol College, Oxford. After taking top honours, he briefly entered the civil service but left almost at once to make his living as a freelance writer instead.
He went on to become one of Britain's best-known literary and drama critics, writing for publications including the Observer, Punch, and the Saturday Review. Across a long career he published a large body of work—essays, criticism, biography, novels, and books on the English language—and became known for a style that was learned, lively, and approachable.
He was appointed CBE and remained a familiar figure in British letters for decades. Readers coming to his books now will find an author who combined broad knowledge with a clear, conversational touch, equally at home discussing Shakespeare, the theatre, and the quirks of everyday English life.