Hilary Mantel is a name that has become synonymous with literary success, revered by critics and readers alike for her powerful writing and captivating storytelling. But few may know that this critically acclaimed author had a humble beginning, fraught with struggles and setbacks. Yet, it is these very challenges that shaped Mantel into the award-winning author she is today.
Born in Derbyshire, England in 1952, Mantel grew up in a working-class family. She was the eldest of three children and spent her childhood in the small town of Hadfield, surrounded by the moors of the Peak District. From a young age, she showed a natural talent for writing, often penning stories and poems in her free time.
However, Mantel’s passion for writing was not encouraged by her family. Her parents, both devout Catholics, had a traditional view of education and believed that their daughter should focus on practical skills rather than pursuing a career in writing. This lack of support and understanding of her dreams left Mantel feeling isolated and frustrated. But she refused to let it deter her from her aspirations.
After completing her education at a convent school, Mantel moved to London to study law. It was during this time that she began to explore her love for writing and attended evening classes for creative writing. Her early attempts at getting published were met with rejection, but Mantel persisted, determined to make a career out of writing.
In 1985, Mantel’s debut novel, “Every Day Is Mother’s Day,” was published to critical acclaim. The darkly humorous novel explored the relationship between a mentally unstable mother and her daughter, and it was clear that Mantel’s own struggles with her mother had influenced the story. The book earned her the prestigious Shiva Naipaul Memorial Prize and set her on a path to literary success.
But Mantel’s journey to becoming a renowned author was not without its challenges. She battled severe health issues, including chronic pain and endometriosis, which often hindered her writing process. She also faced personal struggles, including a divorce and the death of her long-term partner. However, Mantel remained resilient and continued to pour her experiences and emotions into her writing.
Her big breakthrough came with the publication of “Wolf Hall” in 2009, the first book in her Thomas Cromwell trilogy. The novel, which explores the rise to power of King Henry VIII’s chief minister, won the Man Booker Prize, making Mantel the first British author to win the award twice. The sequel, “Bring Up the Bodies,” also won the Man Booker Prize in 2012, cementing Mantel’s position as one of the most talented and acclaimed authors of her generation.
Mantel’s success continued with the final installment of the trilogy, “The Mirror and the Light,” released in 2020. The much-anticipated novel went on to become an instant bestseller and received critical acclaim from readers and critics alike, solidifying Mantel’s place as a literary giant.
From humble beginnings to achieving literary greatness, Hilary Mantel’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, she remained true to her passion for writing, and through her beautiful and thought-provoking prose, has captivated the hearts and minds of readers globally. As she continues to inspire and captivate us with her words, it is clear that Hilary Mantel’s journey as an author is far from over.