Lewis Davies was a Welsh librarian and philanthropist known for his contributions to promoting Welsh writing in English. Born on January 26, 1913 in Wales, he attended the University College of Wales before beginning his career in the literary world.
Before Fame
Davies' early career was marked by his work at the Daily Mirror, where he honed his skills in writing and editing. However, his true passion lay in promoting Welsh literature, a field often overlooked in favor of more mainstream English-language works.
In the 1940s, Davies established the Rhys Davies Trust, named after his older brother who was a well-known short story author. The trust aimed to support emerging Welsh writers and provide them with opportunities to share their work with a wider audience. Davies was dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Wales through literature and believed in the power of storytelling to connect people across different backgrounds.
Trivia
Despite his ambitions to become a priest in the Anglican Church, Davies ultimately decided against it due to the strict views on homosexuality within the institution. This personal struggle with his identity only fueled his commitment to support marginalized voices in the literary world.
Family Life
Davies came from a family of writers and intellectuals, with his older brother Rhys achieving fame as a successful author. The two brothers shared a passion for storytelling and language, which inspired Lewis to continue his brother's legacy through his philanthropic work. Together, they sought to champion Welsh literature and ensure that it received the recognition it deserved.
Associated With
In his philanthropic endeavors, Davies drew inspiration from other prominent benefactors like Edward Harkness, who shared his dedication to supporting the arts and educational initiatives. Through the Rhys Davies Trust, he established a lasting legacy that continues to uplift Welsh writers and preserve their contributions to the literary world.
Lewis Davies' impact on Welsh literature cannot be overstated. His commitment to elevating the voices of Welsh writers in English has left a lasting imprint on the literary landscape. As a librarian and philanthropist, he dedicated his life to preserving the cultural heritage of Wales and ensuring that its stories were shared with a global audience. Lewis Davies' legacy lives on through the writers he supported and the readers whose lives were enriched by their work.