W. (William) Kenrick

William Kenrick was an English miscellaneous writer who lived in the 18th century and died in 1779. Sources describe him as a versatile man of letters who worked across many forms, including essays, translations, plays, criticism, and satire.

He appears to have begun from modest beginnings and built a career through sheer literary activity. Contemporary and later reference works portray him as energetic and talented, but also combative, with a reputation for quarrels and sharp attacks on other writers.

That mix of range, speed, and controversy makes him an interesting figure in the literary world of his time. Rather than being remembered for a single famous book, he stands out as a prolific professional writer whose work reflects the busy, argumentative culture of 18th-century print.