John Leggett, American author and academic (b. 1917)

John Ward Leggett: A Literary Legacy and Visionary Leader

John Ward Leggett, born on November 11, 1917, and passing on January 25, 2015, was a distinguished American writer whose significant contributions extended beyond his own published works to include a transformative leadership role in one of the world's most renowned literary institutions. He is best remembered for his pivotal nineteen-year tenure as the third director of the prestigious Iowa Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa.

Directing the Iowa Writers' Workshop (1970-1987)

From 1970 to 1987, John Ward Leggett served as the director of the Iowa Writers' Workshop, a period marked by the program's continued ascent to global prominence. Established in 1936, the Iowa Writers' Workshop is widely recognized as the premier graduate-level creative writing program in the United States, serving as a model for countless other literary programs worldwide. Its reputation is built on an impressive roster of alumni, including numerous Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Award recipients, and U.S. Poets Laureate, solidifying its status as a vital training ground for generations of influential authors.

As the third individual to helm this esteemed program since its inception, Leggett inherited a legacy of excellence and was instrumental in preserving and enhancing its unique pedagogical approach, which emphasizes intensive workshops, rigorous peer critique, and the development of a distinct literary voice. His leadership ensured that the Workshop remained a fertile ground for emerging literary talent, attracting some of the brightest minds in fiction and poetry and further cementing its foundational role in contemporary American literature.

Leggett's Contributions as an American Writer

Prior to his extensive leadership at the Iowa Writers' Workshop, John Ward Leggett established himself as a respected American writer. He was the author of several notable novels that contributed to the literary landscape of the mid to late 20th century. Among his published works are "The Glad Man" (1967), "Who Took the Gold Away?" (1969), and "Gulliver's Last Travels" (1975). His fiction explored various facets of the human condition and societal observations, earning him critical recognition and a place among his contemporaries who shaped American narrative.

Legacy and Influence

John Ward Leggett's dual legacy as both a novelist and a long-serving director of the Iowa Writers' Workshop solidifies his place as a significant figure in 20th and early 21st-century American letters. His work as a writer showcased his narrative skill and insightful observations, while his dedication to nurturing new talent at Iowa left an indelible mark on generations of authors who passed through the Workshop's halls under his guidance. His nearly two-decade directorship was crucial in maintaining the Workshop's status as a beacon for aspiring writers globally, fostering an environment where literary craft could flourish and new voices could emerge.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Ward Leggett and the Iowa Writers' Workshop

Who was John Ward Leggett?
John Ward Leggett (1917-2015) was a distinguished American writer and, most notably, the third director of the renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa, serving from 1970 to 1987.
What is the significance of the Iowa Writers' Workshop?
The Iowa Writers' Workshop, founded in 1936, is widely considered the most prestigious and influential creative writing program globally. Located at the University of Iowa, it has produced an extraordinary number of highly acclaimed authors and literary prize winners, profoundly shaping contemporary American literature.
How long did John Ward Leggett serve as director of the Iowa Writers' Workshop?
John Ward Leggett served as director for nineteen years, from 1970 until his retirement in 1987.
What were some of John Ward Leggett's notable literary works?
As a novelist, John Ward Leggett authored several books, including "The Glad Man" (1967), "Who Took the Gold Away?" (1969), and "Gulliver's Last Travels" (1975).