Edgar Wallace, English author and screenwriter (b. 1875)

Richard Horatio Edgar Wallace: A Prolific Master of Thriller and Adventure

Richard Horatio Edgar Wallace (1 April 1875 – 10 February 1932) was an exceptionally prolific and influential British writer whose works captivated millions across various genres, most notably thrillers, adventure stories, and detective fiction. His incredible output and compelling narratives left an indelible mark on 20th-century popular literature and cinema.

From Humble Beginnings to War Correspondent

Born into profound poverty as an illegitimate child in Greenwich, London, Edgar Wallace's early life was marked by hardship and a fierce drive for self-improvement. He left formal education at the tender age of 12, embarking on various odd jobs to support himself. At 21, seeking new opportunities, he joined the British Army. His military service, however, proved to be a stepping stone to a career in journalism. During the tumultuous period of the Second Boer War (1899–1902) in South Africa, Wallace distinguished himself as a war correspondent, reporting for prestigious news outlets such as Reuters and the Daily Mail. His firsthand accounts from the front lines honed his observational skills and provided him with invaluable material for his future fictional works.

The Birth of a Literary Giant: Thrillers and Colonial Narratives

Despite his journalistic success, Wallace found himself grappling with significant debt. This financial pressure became a powerful catalyst for his literary career. Upon returning to London from South Africa, he began penning thrillers, seeing them as a viable means to generate income. His debut novel, The Four Just Men, published in 1905, immediately showcased his talent for suspense and intricate plotting, laying the groundwork for his reputation as a master of the genre.

Wallace's experiences as a reporter were a rich source of inspiration. His time covering the brutal realities of the Belgian Congo, specifically the horrific atrocities perpetrated under King Leopold II's Congo Free State, deeply impacted him. These harrowing observations informed his short stories and novels, many of which were serialized in popular magazines like The Windsor Magazine. Collections such as Sanders of the River (1911) epitomized his "colonial imagination," offering thrilling adventures set in exotic locales, albeit often reflecting the prevailing imperialistic attitudes of the era.

International Acclaim and Political Ambitions

By 1921, Edgar Wallace's literary star was firmly on the ascendant. Signing with the prominent publisher Hodder and Stoughton propelled his work to an even wider audience, cementing his status as an internationally recognized author. His books were translated into numerous languages, finding eager readers across the globe.

In 1931, Wallace briefly diverted his attention to politics, making an unsuccessful bid to become a Liberal Member of Parliament for Blackpool. He campaigned as one of David Lloyd George's Independent Liberals during the general election, demonstrating his diverse interests beyond the literary sphere.

Hollywood Beckons and a Tragic End

Following his political foray, Wallace moved to Hollywood, a rapidly expanding hub for filmmaking. There, he embarked on a new chapter as a scriptwriter for RKO Pictures. His prolific storytelling abilities were perfectly suited for the demands of the burgeoning film industry. Tragically, his life was cut short when he died suddenly in Los Angeles on 10 February 1932, at the age of 56, from complications of undiagnosed diabetes. His death occurred during the initial drafting stages of what would become one of cinema's most iconic films, King Kong (1933), for which he received a posthumous story credit.

A Legacy of Unparalleled Output and Enduring Influence

Edgar Wallace's most astounding legacy lies in his sheer volume of work. He was astonishingly prolific; one of his publishers famously, though perhaps hyperbolically, claimed that a quarter of all books published in England during his peak were written by him. Beyond his journalism, Wallace's diverse literary output included:

More than 160 films have been adapted from Wallace's vast body of work, a testament to the enduring appeal of his narratives. While he is remembered for his contribution to King Kong and his "colonial imagination" stories, he is particularly celebrated for his J. G. Reeder detective stories and the thrilling serial The Green Archer. He sold over 50 million copies of his combined works across various editions, solidifying his commercial success. The Economist aptly described him as "one of the most prolific thriller writers of [the 20th] century."

Although the great majority of his books are currently out of print in the UK, Edgar Wallace continues to enjoy immense popularity, particularly in Germany. His intricate plots and suspenseful narratives resonate strongly with German audiences, influencing the country's popular "Krimi" (crime fiction) genre. This lasting appeal was highlighted by the 1963 German TV documentary, The Edgar Wallace Story, a 50-minute feature that included contributions from his son, Bryan Edgar Wallace, who also became a successful writer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edgar Wallace

Who was Edgar Wallace?
Edgar Wallace was a British writer (1875-1932) renowned for his extraordinary prolificacy across various genres, including thrillers, adventure stories, detective fiction, and screenplays. He is considered one of the most commercially successful authors of his era.
What was Edgar Wallace known for?
Wallace was primarily known for his gripping thriller novels and short stories, his role as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War, and his posthumous credit for the story of the iconic film King Kong (1933). His works often featured complex plots, suspense, and memorable characters like Inspector J.G. Reeder.
How many books did Edgar Wallace write?
Edgar Wallace wrote over 170 novels, 957 short stories, and 18 stage plays, among other works, making him one of the most prolific writers in English history. He once published 12 novels in a single year (1929).
Why is Edgar Wallace still popular in Germany?
Edgar Wallace's books, particularly his thrillers and detective stories, continue to be widely read in Germany. His suspenseful narratives and intricate plots resonated deeply with German readers, significantly influencing the development of their "Krimi" (crime fiction) genre and inspiring numerous German film adaptations.
Did Edgar Wallace contribute to the film King Kong?
Yes, Edgar Wallace worked as a scriptwriter for RKO Pictures in Hollywood and contributed to the initial drafting of the story for King Kong (1933) before his sudden death. He received a posthumous story credit for the film.