Cornell Woolrich was born on December 4, 1903, in New York City, NY. He was the only child of Claire and Leon Woolrich, a wealthy and prominent family. From a young age, Woolrich showed a talent for writing and storytelling, often creating elaborate tales for his friends and family.
Woolrich briefly attended Columbia University, but dropped out after his debut novel, Cover Charge, was published. This early success convinced him to pursue a career in writing full-time. He moved to Los Angeles and began working as a screenwriter, lending his talents to various film projects.
Woolrich's writing career took off in the 1930s, with the publication of his first crime novels under the pen names George Hopley and William Irish. He quickly garnered a reputation as a master of suspense and psychological thrillers, with his works frequently adapted into film noir screenplays.
Some of Woolrich's most notable works include Phantom Lady (1942), Hotel Room (1958), and Savage Bride (1950). His 1940 novel, The Bride Wore Black, was later adapted into a film by acclaimed director Francois Truffaut.
Despite his literary success, Woolrich struggled with personal demons throughout his life. He battled alcoholism and suffered from poor health, eventually dying at the young age of 64, weighing only 89 pounds.
Woolrich was also a closeted homosexual, briefly marrying Violet Virginia Blackton in a marriage that was later annulled after just a few months. His personal struggles and internal conflicts often found their way into his writing, adding depth and complexity to his characters and narratives.
Cornell Woolrich's influence on the crime fiction genre cannot be understated. His gripping plots, flawed characters, and atmospheric settings continue to captivate readers and inspire writers to this day. Despite his personal struggles, Woolrich's legacy lives on through his timeless works, which continue to be celebrated and adapted for new audiences.
His unique perspective and storytelling style have left an indelible mark on the world of literature, cementing his place as one of the greats of American crime fiction. Cornell Woolrich may have passed away, but his legacy lives on through the haunting stories and unforgettable characters he created.
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