William Faulkner in Literature Class

 Writers from Texas have shaped and impacted the literary world more than most people are aware of. Texas was an inspiration to writers beginning with Cabeza de Vaca who wrote of his travels there in 1542. His stories inspired many later 'entradas' or expeditions which opened up the Southwest to colonization. Men like Cornonado led massive expeditions in search of the seven cities of gold based on the inspirational writing of de Vaca.

When colonists came to Texas in the 19th century, they quickly began publishing. John Crittenden Duval wrote his adventures in the days of the Republic of Texas. His writings led the novelist J. Frank Dobie to proclaim him the "Father of Texas Literature".

Although not Texans, some of the influential writers who visited Texas and were moved by what they saw included, Robert L. Dabney, the theologian who was later a professor at the University of Texas, John James Audubon and Frederick Law Olmstead.

Throughout the 20th century, Texas writers had distinctive voices with their works often challenging the establishment and developing an independent voice. As a group, they voiced concerns about many social and environmental issues.

Schools frequently offer courses in American literature and British literature, but few consider the genre of Texas literature as a stand alone. Some schools are daring in offering courses addressing regional writers (e.g. Southern Writers or the Nashville Agrarians) yet often preface such courses citing that they are a sub-group rather than a distinct area of unique study.

During the 20th century Texas writers produced many influential works. Given that the education establishment and literature departments focus much of their efforts on creating the image of the American melting pot, rather than celebrate the writers on a how to read literature like a professor or state level, the public is often unaware of these writers. When they are aware of them, the writers are grouped under the heading of "Contemporary American Writers" or "Western Writers" rather than "Texas Writers" or "Texas Literature".

Texas Writers in the 1930's: An outspoken Bunch

During the 1930's, the Texas writer Robert E. Howard is best known for having created a series of stories with the central character of "Conan the Barbarian". He also created other lesser known characters (El Borak, Solomon Kane and Bran Mak Morn) in his works. His works formed the beginnings of what is commonly referred to as "Swords and Sorcery".

The noted Texas folklorist, J. Frank Dobie also began publishing his works in the 1930's. Dobie's passion was capturing and conveying the folk stories of Texas. During his time as a writer, he was often outspoken in his view against the mechanized world. He also disliked many aspects of Texas politics and often let the politicians of the time know his concerns. One Texas Governor attempted getting him dismissed from the University of Texas for his views. Dobie eventually won out in that matter. He was later the recipient of the Medal of Freedom Award, presented to him by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

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