Irving Stone ​

Irving Stone was an American writer known for his biographical novels of famous historical figures such as Vincent van Gogh, Michelangelo, and Sigmund Freud, among others. His most popular books include 'The Agony and the Ecstasy' and 'Lust for Life'. His works have been translated into more than twenty-five languages and most are still in print.

Quick Facts ​

• Many of his books were loosely based on biographical facts.
• His works were translated into over 25 languages.
• His novel "The Agony and the Ecstasy," was made into a film starring Charlton Heston.
• He donated most of his earnings to charities and educational institutions.
• His book "Clarence Darrow for the Defense" was adapted into a play.

Background ​

Stone was born in San Francisco in 1903 to Charles and Pauline Rosenberg. At seven, he and his mother moved to New York City where he learned the city’s architecture, museums, and libraries. He attended CUNY for a year and dropped out to support his mother by working in a bookstore, paving the way to his journey to becoming a bestseller novelist. His first fiction novel, Lust for Life (1934), was about the life of Vincent van Gogh which was rejected repeatedly until the reclusive widow of a Dutch art dealer, Jo van Gogh-Bonger, helped him to authenticate details of van Gogh’s life. Other works highlighted the lives of historic characters such as Charles Darwin, ‘The Origin’ and Sigmund Freud, ‘The Passions of the Mind’. Stone passed away in 1989.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Stone's writing style is characterized by meticulous research and detailed historical context, providing a vivid depiction of his characters. He's known for fictional memoirs or biographical novels of famous personalities like Vincent Van Gogh or Michelangelo. Despite sometimes criticized for placing fiction over fact, his work significantly contributed to the popularity of biographical novels and history-driven stories; finding a balance between the emotional depth of characters and historical accuracy.

Notable Works ​

• Lust for Life (1934)
• The Agony and the Ecstasy (1961)
• The Passions of the Mind (1971)
• The Greek Treasure (1975)
• Depths of Glory (1985)