William Makepeace Thackeray - Notes on a Journey from Cornhill to Grand Cairo: "Bravery never goes out of fashion."

Born in India in 1811, the author faced early tragedy with his father's death, leading to a return to England for education. Despite a slow start in harnessing his talents, he eventually became a prolific writer of novels, articles, and lectures. His personal life was marred by his wife's struggle with depression and his own health issues. Nevertheless, writing remained his passion and solace, earning him significant acclaim, second only to Dickens during his lifetime.