Stephen King

Hampden Academy

Portrait photograph of Stephen King by Alex Gotfryd, c. 1974

Portrait photograph of Stephen King by Alex Gotfryd, c. 1977

StephenKingGFDL

Stephen King - 2011

Gary Hart and Stephen King, 1984 presidential campaign

Stephen King is an American author of horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, crime, science-fiction, and fantasy novels. He is recognized as one of the most famous and prolific horror writers of the 20th and 21st centuries. King's books have sold more than 350 million copies worldwide, and many have been adapted into films, television series, and miniseries.

Early Life

Stephen Edwin King was born on September 21, 1947, in Portland, Maine, to Donald and Nellie Ruth Pillsbury King. After his father left the family when Stephen was two, his mother raised him and his older brother, David, by herself, sometimes under great financial strain. The family moved frequently, eventually settling back in Maine, where King completed his schooling. King showed an early interest in horror, having read an assortment of comic books and novels in the genre. He began writing for fun while still in school, contributing articles to his brother's homemade newspaper.

Career

King's professional writing career began in the early 1970s with short stories in magazines. His first novel, Carrie, was published in 1974. The book's success allowed him to become a full-time writer. Following Carrie, King's novels Salem's Lot (1975) and The Shining (1977) were published, cementing his reputation as a leading author of horror fiction. His subsequent works, including The Stand, It, Misery, and The Dark Tower series, have garnered critical and commercial success.

King's writing is characterized by its clear, accessible prose, and his ability to create deeply psychological, relatable characters. Many of his stories are set in Maine, often in fictional towns like Castle Rock or Derry, which have become iconic in the horror genre. King's work explores themes of good vs. evil, the power of childhood, and the horror of the everyday.

Adaptations

Many of King's novels and short stories have been adapted into successful films and television series. Notable adaptations include Carrie (1976), The Shining (1980), It (1990) and its 2017 remake, Misery (1990), and The Shawshank Redemption (1994), which, although not a horror movie, is frequently cited as one of the greatest films of all time. These adaptations have contributed to King's fame and have introduced his work to a broader audience.

Personal Life

King has been married to Tabitha King (née Spruce) since 1971. Tabitha is also a novelist, and the couple has three children, including author Joe Hill. King has been open about his struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, which he has successfully overcome. He continues to live in Maine and remains an active contributor to literature and social commentary.

Legacy

Stephen King's impact on the horror genre and literature as a whole is immense. He has received numerous awards for his contributions, including the Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters from the National Book Foundation. King's ability to tap into universal fears and his storytelling prowess have made him a household name.