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Author Simon Raven was perhaps known as much for his controversial behaviour as for his writing. He grew up reading and studying the classics, translating them from Greek and Latin into English and vice-versa. He was expelled from Charterhouse School in 1945 for homosexual activities and went on to join the army. Following his National Service, Raven attended King's College, Cambridge to read English. Raven returned to the army but was asked to resign rather than face a court-martial for 'conduct unbecoming.' It was at this point that he turned his focus to writing. The publisher Anthony Blond paid Raven to write and to move away from London to Deal, Kent. His works span a multitude of genres including fiction, drama, essays, memoirs and screenplays. Simon Raven died in May 2001.
Raven's unique vision of our times - classes battling, corruption raging, ideas flashing - is not only valid but valuable. He spins webs of chance, intrigue and wit to ensnare civilised values and trap the truth. It's high time we gave this very curious genius a loud, warm welcome. -- David Hughes * Mail on Sunday * A ready made cult waiting to be discovered * Spectator * Cracking entertainment... Dangerously, deliciously addictive * Daily Telegraph * Raven's gusto, the robustness of his style and his powerful, if quirky, intelligence all held me rapt * Sunday Telegraph * Sparkling and fizzing... Raven has the mind of a cad and the pen of an angel * Guardian *
