G.K. Chesterton

Gilbert Keith Chesterton, (29 May 1874 – 14 June 1936) was a poet, novelist, playwright, literary commentator, editor, biographer, journalist, orator and theologian. He was often dubbed as the “prince of paradox” for his light whimsical style that often addressed serious issues such as politics and religion. The latter was as a member and defender of the Christian faith and the former was shaped by a distrust of concentrated wealth and power. He advocated Distributionism and said that every man should be allowed to own "three acres and a cow." These political views have spread round the world, crediting Chesterton as the father of the “small is beautiful” movement. It is also said to have influenced Gandhi in seeking a genuine nationalism for India rather than imitating the British state. As one of the world’s most prolific writers, his main claim to fame is as the creator of Father Brown, but Chesterton’s glorious style and profound ideas in all his work reveal truths, often with humour which makes him remarkably contemporary and relevant to the modern reader. This is clearly demonstrated in 'A Miscellany of Men' which is a collection of insightful essays that deal with an array of issues skilfully illustrated by using types of people many of whom will still be recognisable today.

A Word To The Wise

A Miscellany Of Men: "Among the rich you will never find a really generous man even by accident. They may give their money away, but they will never give themselves away."

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