Skip to Content

John Barth, innovative postmodernist novelist, dies at 93

By BRIAN WITTE
Associated Press Writer

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — John Barth, the postmodernist writer whose whimsical novels revolved around the art of literature, has died. He was 93. Johns Hopkins University, where Barth was an emeritus professor, confirmed his death in a statement Tuesday. Barth authored 20 books including “Giles Goat-Boy” and “The Sot-Weed Factor,” revealing his passions for literary theory and history. Along with William Gass, Stanley Elkin and other peers, Barth was part of a wave of writers in the 1960s who challenged standards of language and plot. He was also a college writing instructor who advocated for postmodernism to literature, saying old forms were used up and new approaches were needed.

Article Topic Follows: AP-National

Jump to comments ↓

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KVIA ABC 7 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content