Dame Ivy Compton-Burnett (1884–1969) was an English novelist. She developed a distinctive form of the novel set almost entirely in dialogue to dissect personal relationships and power struggles in the upper-middle-class Edwardian household.
Born in Pinner, Middlesex, Compton-Burnett graduated in Classics from Royal Holloway College, London University, and published her first novel, Dolores, in 1911.
Compton-Burnett’s stylized novels are often set in upper-class Victorian or Edwardian society, and her characters usually belong to prominent families spanning several generations. She was noted for her skillful use of dialogue, which conveys the secret thoughts and understanding of the characters.
Compton-Burnett’s works include Pastors and Masters (1925,) Brothers and Sisters (1929,) Parents and Children (1941,) Mother and Son (1955, James Tait Black Memorial Prize,) A Father and His Fate (1957,) The Mighty and Their Fall (1961) and A God and His Gifts (1963.)
British journalist Hilary Spurling wrote the biography Ivy: The Life of I. Compton-Burnett (1995.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Ivy Compton-Burnett
Appearances are not held to be a clue to the truth. But we seem to have no other.
—Ivy Compton-Burnett
Topics: Appearance
Real life seems to have no plots.
—Ivy Compton-Burnett
Topics: Life and Living
Wondering Whom to Read Next?
Douglas Adams British Author
John Fowles English Novelist
Zadie Smith (b.1975) English Novelist, Essayist, Short-story Writer
Barbara Cartland English Romantic Novelist
A. S. Byatt English Novelist, Poet
Jackie Collins English Romance Novelist
Elizabeth Goudge English Novelist
Anita Brookner English Novelist, Art Historian
Joan Aiken British Fantasy Writer
Rosamond Lehmann English Novelist