Virginia Woolf

"No need to hurry. No need to sparkle. No need to be anybody but oneself."

Born 25 jan 1882 South Kensington. Died 28 March 1941 in Lewes, England.

Modernist writer

Personality traits: Observant, sensitive, sexually fluid, introspective, depressive.

Fame: Novelist, modernist

Why Virginia?

Virginia Woolf explored the inner life of women. I admire her vitality and sensitivity, and the courage with which she exposed her naked truth in her books. There is strength in vulnerability, and Virginia created a space for us to explore and define and describe ourselves. As she put it herself: “In order for a woman to write fiction, she must have two things: a room of her own (with key and lock) and enough money to support herself.” To any artist, this will resonate today as well - we all need a room to be centered, and find the voice that can speak for ourselves and for others.

Virginia’s husband consistently supported her work, and the challenges her mental struggles meant for both of them - this was not a given at the time. Her parents as well were very supportive of her, and provided both her and her siblings with a highly cultured upbringing. Still, Virginia battled with demons, and writes with a rare acceptance of madness and obsession. Being sensitive and creative can be a dangerous thing when you transgress the safe zones to get access to what’s beyond. Virginia exemplified a complete commitment to this journey, and paid the cost. She may have sacrificed herself, but left a legacy behind for future generations of women - resulting in her rennaissance during the women’s movement of the 60s and 70s.