Richard Condon was born on March 18, 1915, in New York City. He grew up in a working-class family and developed a love for literature at a young age. After graduating from high school, he briefly attended college before deciding to join the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II.
After his time in the Merchant Marine, Condon moved to Hollywood, where he began working as a publicist, agent, and advertisement writer. It was during this time that he started honing his craft as a writer, drawing inspiration from the colorful characters he encountered in the entertainment industry.
Condon's literary career took off with the publication of his 1959 novel, The Manchurian Candidate. The novel, which explores the dark underbelly of politics and power, quickly became a bestseller and solidified Condon's reputation as a master of political satire.
In addition to The Manchurian Candidate, Condon is also known for his Prizzi series of gangster novels, which delves into the world of organized crime. His other works include The Star-Spangled Crunch and Death of a Politician, all of which showcase his sharp wit and incisive commentary on societal issues.
Throughout his career, Condon remained focused on exploring the abuse of power in various forms. He believed that the powerful often used their influence to manipulate and control others, a theme that is prevalent in many of his works.
Condon's writing was heavily influenced by his own experiences and observations of the world around him. He drew inspiration from real-life events and people, weaving them into his narratives to create compelling and thought-provoking stories.
Outside of his writing career, Condon led a relatively quiet life. He married Evelyn Hunt in 1938, and the couple remained devoted to each other throughout their lives.
Despite his success as a novelist, Condon remained humble and grounded, always keeping true to his working-class roots. He was known for his sharp sense of humor and his keen insight into human nature.
Richard Condon's impact on the literary world continues to be felt today. His novels have been adapted into films and have inspired countless writers to explore themes of power, politics, and corruption in their own work.
His unique voice and ability to blend satire with suspense have cemented his place as one of the great American novelists of the 20th century. Richard Condon may have passed away in 1996, but his legacy lives on through his enduring works.