Robert Holdstock

Robert Holdstock 15 mai 2004 1

Robert Holdstock (2 August 1948 – 29 November 2009) was a British science fiction and fantasy author, best known for his works exploring mythology and folklore. His most famous work is the Mythago Wood series, which delves into the concept of mythagos, or mythic images, that are generated by the human subconscious.

Early Life and Education

Robert Holdstock was born in Hythe, Kent, England. He attended Gillingham Grammar School and later studied zoology at University College London. His background in science often influenced his writing, blending scientific concepts with fantastical elements.

Career

Holdstock began his writing career in the early 1970s, initially publishing short stories in various science fiction magazines. His first novel, Eye Among the Blind, was published in 1976. However, it was the publication of Mythago Wood in 1984 that brought him widespread acclaim. The novel won the World Fantasy Award for Best Novel in 1985 and established Holdstock as a significant figure in the fantasy genre.

Mythago Wood Series

The Mythago Wood series is set in a small area of ancient woodland in Herefordshire, England. The series explores the idea that the wood is a place where ancient myths and legends come to life. The novels in the series include:

• Mythago Wood (1984)
• Lavondyss (1988)
• The Bone Forest (1991)
• The Hollowing (1993)
• Merlin's Wood (1994)
• Gate of Ivory, Gate of Horn (1997)
• Avilion (2009)

Other Works

In addition to the Mythago Wood series, Holdstock wrote several other novels and short stories. Notable works include:

• The Fetch (1978)
• Necromancer (1978)
• Earthwind (1977)
• Where Time Winds Blow (1981)
• The Ragthorn (1991) - co-written with Garry Kilworth

Themes and Style

Holdstock's work is characterized by its deep exploration of mythology, psychology, and the human subconscious. His writing often blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, creating richly detailed worlds that are both familiar and otherworldly.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Holdstock received numerous awards and nominations, including:

• World Fantasy Award for Best Novel (1985) for Mythago Wood
• British Science Fiction Association Award for Best Novel (1988) for Lavondyss
• British Fantasy Award for Best Short Story (1991) for The Ragthorn

Personal Life

Holdstock lived in London for much of his life. He was known for his love of nature and often drew inspiration from the English countryside. He passed away on 29 November 2009 due to complications from an E. coli infection.

Legacy

Robert Holdstock's work continues to be celebrated for its imaginative depth and its unique blending of mythology and fantasy. His influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary fantasy authors.

Bibliography

• Eye Among the Blind (1976)
• The Fetch (1978)
• Necromancer (1978)
• Earthwind (1977)
• Where Time Winds Blow (1981)
• Mythago Wood (1984)
• Lavondyss (1988)
• The Bone Forest (1991)
• The Hollowing (1993)
• Merlin's Wood (1994)
• Gate of Ivory, Gate of Horn (1997)
• Avilion (2009)

See Also

• Fantasy literature
• Science fiction literature
• Mythology in fiction
• British fantasy authors