The Complete Works of Rudyard Kipling (eBook)

Born in Bombay, British India, on December 30, 1865, Joseph Rudyard Kipling was an English journalist, short-story writer, poet, and novelist. He is perhaps best remembered for his novels 'The Jungle Book' (1894), 'Kim' (1901), and his collection of verse 'Barrack-Room Ballads' (1892), which includes the poem 'Mandalay.' The entirety of his work, encapsulated in 'The Complete Works of Rudyard Kipling,' reveals the profound impact of his years in India and his experiences in British colonial society. Kipling's literary style often resonated with an imperialistic ethos, combined with a deep acquaintance with the language of the colonial subjects and the soldiers of the British Empire. In 1907, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming the first English-language writer to receive the award, and to date, he remains its youngest recipient. His children's stories remain popular for their adventurous narratives and vivid characterizations, often interwoven with moral lessons. Kipling's poignant prose, and his verse are marked by both rhythm and a powerful clarity, making his work accessible yet profound. Despite his fame, Kipling's works have also elicited criticism over the years, particularly concerning his perceived advocacy for colonialism. Nonetheless, Kipling's influence on English literature is indelible, thanks to his innovation in short-story writing and his mastery of the English language.