A Compelling Look at Wallace Markfield’s Legacy

The Life and Legacy of Wallace Markfield

A deep dive into the history of an iconic Brooklyn author

Early Life and Education

Wallace Markfield was born in Brooklyn, New York, a vibrant cultural melting pot that shaped many of his literary perspectives. He graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School, an institution that notably produced various prominent figures in diverse fields.

Growing Up in Brooklyn

Growing up in Brooklyn, Markfield was exposed to a rich tapestry of experiences, which significantly influenced his work. The neighborhoods of Brooklyn, filled with diverse communities and unique stories, provided a backdrop that would later permeate his writings.

 A comic novelist, Markfield wrote with satiric wit and Jewish humor about working-class New York characters he had observed during his growing-up years in Brooklyn from the 1930’s to 1950’s.
 

Literary Career

Markfield’s career as a writer began with a profound appreciation for the spoken word and storytelling. His contributions to literature include:

• Novels: His novels often explore themes of urban life, the struggles of identity, and the complexity of human relationships.
• Short Stories: Markfield’s short stories showcase his ability to capture moments through vivid characterizations and unparalleled wit.
• Essays: In his essays, he addressed societal issues with a critical eye, all while maintaining a conversational tone that resonated with readers.

Markfield is best known for his first novel, ‘To an Early Grave’ (1964), about four men who spend the day driving from Manhatttan and across Brooklyn to their friend’s funeral. Markfield was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1965 after the publication of the book.  In 1968 To An Early Grave was adapted for the screen under the title Bye Bye Braverman, directed by Sidney Lumet and starring George Segal and Jack Warden.
 

Critical Acclaim

His works received numerous accolades, marking Markfield as a distinguished figure in American letters. Critics praised his ability to transcend the boundaries of race, culture, and personal experience.

Legacy and Influence

Wallace Markfield left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. His works serve not only as entertainment but also as reflections of the human condition, inviting readers to engage with complex themes.

‘Markfield is also known for ‘Teitlebaum’s Window’ (1970), a comic novel about a Jewish boy growing up in Brooklyn in the 1930s and 1940s.  Other writings include: “You Could Live If They Let You’ (1974); ‘Multiple Orgasms’ (1977); and  ‘Radical Surgery’ (1991).
 

Influence on Contemporary Writers

Markfield’s storytelling techniques have influenced a generation of writers who seek to explore urban narratives and the intricacies of character development. Many contemporary authors credit him as a source of inspiration for their own endeavors.

Conclusion

The legacy of Wallace Markfield continues to thrive in the hearts and minds of readers and writers alike. His journey from a Brooklyn high school graduate to a celebrated author captures the essence of resilience and creativity, offering lessons for aspiring writers everywhere.

Markfield died of a heart attack in Roslyn NY on 5.24.2002.   At the time of his death he had been working on a novel for eleven years.

Join us in celebrating the life of Wallace Markfield, where every word serves as a reminder of his profound impact on literature.