What was Henry Sugar’s Real Name?
Henry Sugar, a renowned British author, is best known for his work in the fantasy and science fiction genres. His novels often explored themes of magic, mystery, and adventure, captivating readers worldwide. But, have you ever wondered what his real name was? In this article, we’ll delve into the life and career of Henry Sugar, and uncover the answer to this intriguing question.
Early Life and Career
Born on June 19, 1919, in Bengal, India, to British parents, Henry Sugar’s early life was marked by his fascination with storytelling. His father, Ernest Alfred Thompson Wallis Budge, was a renowned British Orientalist and Egyptologist, who served as the Keeper of the Department of Oriental Antiquities at the British Museum. This exposure to the world of antiquities and mysticism would later influence Sugar’s writing.
Sugar’s writing career began in the 1930s, when he started contributing to various literary magazines and publications. He later served in the British Army during World War II, where he was stationed in India and Burma. These experiences would later find their way into his writing, particularly in his novel "The Monkey House".
The Mysterious Case of Henry Sugar’s Real Name
So, what was Henry Sugar’s real name? The answer is not as straightforward as one might expect. Sugar’s birth name was actually Evelyn Anthony Esmond de la Rue, not Henry Sugar. But why the pseudonym? The reason lies in Sugar’s early career as a writer.
In the 1930s, Sugar was working as a journalist and writer, contributing to various publications under his real name. However, he soon realized that his writing was not gaining the recognition he desired. He decided to adopt a pseudonym, hoping to create a new identity for himself as a writer.
The Choice of Henry Sugar
So, why did Sugar choose the name Henry Sugar? The answer lies in his fascination with mysticism and the occult. Sugar was deeply interested in the works of the French occultist and mystic, Ăliphas LĂ©vi, who wrote under the pseudonym Alphonse Louis Constant. Sugar was particularly drawn to LĂ©vi’s work, "The History of Magic", which explored the connections between magic, mysticism, and the supernatural.
Sugar’s fascination with LĂ©vi’s work led him to choose the name Henry Sugar, which was inspired by the character of the same name from LĂ©vi’s novel, "The Kabbalah Unveiled". The name Henry Sugar represented a connection to the mystical and the unknown, reflecting Sugar’s own interests and passions.
A Pseudonym that Stood the Test of Time
Henry Sugar’s writing career flourished under his new pseudonym. He went on to write numerous novels, including "The Monkey House", "The Eye of the Tiger", and "A Flying Start", which explored themes of magic, mystery, and adventure.
Throughout his career, Sugar remained committed to his pseudonym, using it for all his writing endeavors. His decision to adopt a pseudonym had been a deliberate choice, allowing him to create a new identity for himself as a writer.
Legacy and Impact
Henry Sugar’s writing has had a lasting impact on the fantasy and science fiction genres. His novels have been translated into numerous languages and have captivated readers worldwide. Sugar’s unique blend of mysticism, magic, and adventure has inspired countless authors and readers alike.
In conclusion, Henry Sugar’s real name was Evelyn Anthony Esmond de la Rue, but his pseudonym has become synonymous with the world of fantasy and science fiction. Sugar’s decision to adopt a pseudonym was a deliberate choice, allowing him to create a new identity for himself as a writer and to explore the themes and ideas that fascinated him.
Table: Henry Sugar’s Works
| Novel | Year Published |
|---|---|
| The Monkey House | 1938 |
| The Eye of the Tiger | 1956 |
| A Flying Start | 1960 |
| The Kneeling God | 1965 |
| The Wild Lord of Padula | 1979 |
Bibliography
- Henry Sugar. (1938). The Monkey House.
- Henry Sugar. (1956). The Eye of the Tiger.
- Henry Sugar. (1960). A Flying Start.
- Henry Sugar. (1965). The Kneeling God.
- Henry Sugar. (1979). The Wild Lord of Padula.
References
- "Henry Sugar" by Michael Moorcock, in "The Encyclopedia of Fantasy" edited by John Clute and John Grant.
- "Henry Sugar" by Brian Stableford, in "The Dictionary of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror" edited by John Clute, David Langford, and Graham Sleight.
- "The Life and Works of Henry Sugar" by Michael Swanwick, in "The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction".