39 Facts About Gertrude Stein

Early Life and Education

Gertrude Stein, an influential figure in literature and art, had a fascinating early life that shaped her future endeavors.

1. 01Born on February 3, 1874, in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, Stein was the youngest of five children.
2. 02Her family moved to Vienna and then to Paris when she was a toddler, exposing her to European culture early on.
3. 03Stein's father was a wealthy businessman, which allowed the family to live comfortably and travel extensively.
4. 04She attended Radcliffe College, where she studied under psychologist William James, who greatly influenced her thinking.
5. 05Stein later enrolled at Johns Hopkins University to study medicine but left before completing her degree.

Literary Contributions

Stein's unique writing style and contributions to literature have left a lasting impact.

6. 06Stein's most famous work, "The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas," is actually a biography of Stein herself, written in the voice of her life partner.
7. 07She coined the term "Lost Generation" to describe the disillusioned post-World War I generation of writers.
8. 08Her writing style is known for its stream-of-consciousness technique, which was innovative at the time.
9. 09Stein's book "Tender Buttons" is a collection of avant-garde poetry that challenges traditional syntax and meaning.
10. 10She was a mentor to many young writers, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Art Patronage

Stein was not only a writer but also a significant art collector and patron.

11. 11She and her brother Leo amassed an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and Cézanne.
12. 12Their Paris apartment became a salon for artists and writers, fostering a creative community.
13. 13Picasso painted a famous portrait of Stein, which now hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
14. 14Stein's support helped launch the careers of many now-famous artists.
15. 15She was one of the first collectors to recognize the talent of Henri Matisse.

Personal Life

Stein's personal life was as intriguing as her professional one.

16. 16Stein met Alice B. Toklas in Paris in 1907, and they became life partners.
17. 17The couple lived together for nearly 40 years, until Stein's death in 1946.
18. 18Stein and Toklas were known for their hospitality, often hosting gatherings for artists and writers.
19. 19Stein was openly gay at a time when it was socially unacceptable, making her a pioneer in LGBTQ+ history.
20. 20She had a close but tumultuous relationship with her brother Leo, who eventually moved away and severed ties.

Later Years and Legacy

Stein's later years were marked by continued creativity and influence.

21. 21During World War II, Stein and Toklas remained in France, living in the countryside to avoid Nazi occupation.
22. 22Stein continued to write prolifically, producing works like "Wars I Have Seen" and "Brewsie and Willie."
23. 23She gave lectures in the United States in the 1930s, which were well-received and increased her fame.
24. 24Stein's work influenced the development of modernist literature and art.
25. 25She passed away on July 27, 1946, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, from stomach cancer.

Interesting Tidbits

Some lesser-known facts about Stein add depth to her already fascinating story.

26. 26Stein was a fan of automobiles and even owned a Ford Model T.
27. 27She had a pet poodle named Basket, who was often mentioned in her writings.
28. 28Stein was known for her distinctive voice and manner of speaking, which left a strong impression on those who met her.
29. 29She was a prolific letter writer, maintaining correspondence with many notable figures of her time.
30. 30Stein's love for food is evident in her writing, with many references to meals and dining experiences.

Influence on Modern Culture

Stein's impact extends beyond her lifetime, influencing various aspects of modern culture.

31. 31The phrase "a rose is a rose is a rose" from her poem "Sacred Emily" has become iconic.
32. 32Stein's work has been adapted into plays, films, and even operas.
33. 33She has been portrayed in movies like "Midnight in Paris," highlighting her role in the artistic community.
34. 34Stein's experimental writing style paved the way for future literary innovations.
35. 35Her life and work continue to be studied in academic circles, inspiring new generations of writers and artists.

Recognition and Honors

Stein received various accolades and honors, both during her life and posthumously.

36. 36In 1934, she was awarded an honorary degree from Harvard University.
37. 37Stein's contributions to literature and art have been recognized with numerous exhibitions and retrospectives.
38. 38The Gertrude Stein Society was established to promote the study and appreciation of her work.
39. 39Her legacy is celebrated in various ways, including the naming of streets and buildings in her honor.

Final Glimpse at Gertrude Stein

Gertrude Stein was a true pioneer in the literary world. Her unique writing style, bold personality, and influential social circle left a lasting mark on literature and art. Stein's Paris salon became a hub for some of the most famous artists and writers of the 20th century, including Picasso, Hemingway, and Fitzgerald. Her works, though often challenging, pushed the boundaries of traditional narrative and language. Stein's life was as colorful as her prose, filled with travel, creativity, and a deep partnership with Alice B. Toklas. From her early days in Pennsylvania to her final years in France, Stein's legacy continues to inspire and provoke thought. Whether you're a fan of modernist literature or just curious about this fascinating figure, there's no denying the impact Gertrude Stein had on the cultural landscape.