David Storey (13 July 1933 – 27 March 2017) was an English playwright, screenwriter, award-winning novelist and professional rugby league player. He won the Booker Prize in 1976 for his novel Saville.
Life and Career
David Storey was born on 13 July 1933, in Wakefield, United Kingdom.
Storey attended the Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Wakefield. He displayed a talent for sports, particularly rugby, and played professionally for a short time.
Storey gained recognition with his debut novel, “This Sporting Life” (1960), which drew on his experiences as a rugby player.
He continued to write novels, including “Flight into Camden” (1960), “Radcliffe” (1963), and “Pasmore” (1972).
Storey was also known for his plays, such as “The Restoration of Arnold Middleton” (1967), “Home” (1970), and “The Changing Room” (1971), which won the prestigious Booker Prize.
He adapted some of his works for the screen, including “This Sporting Life,” which was made into a film in 1963.
In addition to writing, Storey directed films and continued to produce novels and plays throughout his career.
Storey’s later works included novels like “Saville” (1976) and “A Serious Man” (1998) and plays like “The March on Russia” (1989).
David Storey passed away on March 27, 2017, at the age of 83.
Award and Legacy
David Storey was awarded the Booker Prize for his play “The Changing Room” in 1973. This prestigious literary award recognized his outstanding contribution to English literature.
Storey received several other literary awards and nominations throughout his career, acknowledging his prowess as a novelist and playwright.
David Storey’s legacy lies in his significant contributions to both literature and drama. His novels and plays are celebrated for their exploration of working-class life, social issues, and human relationships.
Storey’s works have had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape, offering a nuanced portrayal of post-war British society. His ability to capture the complexities of everyday life, particularly in the industrial north, resonates with readers and audiences.
As a playwright, Storey played a crucial role in shaping British drama in the 20th century. “The Changing Room” is often regarded as a groundbreaking play that challenged theatrical conventions and earned him widespread acclaim.
Storey’s legacy includes his commitment to representing the working-class experience in his works. His novels, such as “This Sporting Life,” provide a unique perspective on the challenges and aspirations of individuals from a working-class background.
Several of Storey’s works were adapted into films, further extending his influence beyond literature and theatre. The film adaptation of “This Sporting Life” brought his storytelling to a broader audience.
Critics have consistently praised Storey’s ability to capture the essence of human relationships and societal dynamics. His works continue to be studied and analyzed for their literary merit and social commentary.
In addition to his success in literature and theatre, Storey’s legacy includes his contributions to screenwriting and filmmaking. His involvement in adapting his works for the screen reflects his versatility as a storyteller.