Who Is David Foster Wallace? Age, Biography and Wiki
David Foster Wallace was born on February 21, 1962, marking an indelible legacy as one of the most influential American writers of his generation. He gained prominence with his unique narrative style and his defiance of contemporary literary conventions. Wallace's work often delved into themes of existentialism, the complexities of modern life, and the struggles of the human condition. He passed away on September 12, 2008, but his literary influence continues to resonate widely in 2025.
| Occupation | Tennis Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 21, 1962 |
| Age | 46 Years |
| Birth Place | Ithaca, New York, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 12 September, 2008 |
| Died Place | Claremont, California, U.S. |
Popularity
David Foster Wallace's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While David Foster Wallace's precise height and weight specifications might not be outright documented, he was often described as having an average build standing around 6 feet tall. His distinct style, including his signature bandana, became symbolic of his persona. Unfortunately, specific body measurements are largely overlooked in literary discussions, as his intellect and thought-provoking prose are what characterized his presence.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
David Foster Wallace's personal life was often left out of the limelight compared to his writing. He was known to have had relationships with various individuals, but one of the most notable was with his girlfriend, who later became his wife, Karen Green. Their relationship showcased Wallace's struggle with intimacy and connection, which were often themes present in his writings. As of now, Wallace remains a poignant figure in literature, with his personal life being studied as closely as his art.
The family moved to Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, where he was raised along with his younger sister, Amy Wallace-Havens. His father was a philosophy professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
His mother was an English professor at Parkland College, a community college in Champaign, which recognized her work with a "Professor of the Year" award in 1996. From fourth grade, Wallace lived with his family in Urbana, where he attended Yankee Ridge Elementary School, Brookens Junior High School and Urbana High School.
Net Worth and Salary
During his lifetime, David Foster Wallace achieved significant success, leading to a net worth estimated in the millions. Posthumously, his works continue to sell and generate revenue, with annual earnings possible from royalties and adaptations of his work. However, an exact figure for his net worth in 2025 is difficult to ascertain, as it fluctuates based on posthumous publications and licensing deals.
Career, Business and Investments
David Foster Wallace's career spanned various forms of writing, including novels, essays, and short stories. His magnum opus, Infinite Jest, remains a landmark in contemporary American literature. Beyond novels, Wallace contributed to several prestigious publications, proving himself versatile across genres.
In terms of business and investments, Wallace did not engage in high-profile investment activities typical of many contemporary authors. Instead, his focus remained largely on writing and inspiring future generations of writers. His works continue influencing literary theory and authorial techniques in 2025.
In 1991, Wallace began teaching literature as an adjunct professor at Emerson College in Boston. The next year, at the suggestion of colleague and supporter Steven Moore, Wallace obtained a position in the English department at Illinois State University.
He had begun work on his second novel, Infinite Jest, in 1991, and submitted a draft to his editor in December 1993. After the publication of excerpts throughout 1995, the book was published in 1996.
Social Network
While David Foster Wallace was not part of the digital social networks that thrive today, his literary legacy has seen a resurgence in online discussions through platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and various literary forums. Posthumously, fans and scholars alike continue to share insights and celebrate his work, creating virtual communities dedicated to his influence and explore the themes found within his literature.
David Foster Wallace (February 21, 1962 – September 12, 2008) was an American novelist, short story writer, essayist, and university professor of English and creative writing. Wallace's 1996 novel Infinite Jest was cited by Time magazine as one of the 100 best English-language novels from 1923 to 2005.
His posthumous novel, The Pale King (2011), was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2012. David Ulin of the Los Angeles Times called Wallace "one of the most influential and innovative writers of the last twenty years".
Education
Wallace received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Amherst College, where he majored in English and philosophy. He continued his education at the University of Arizona, earning a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing. His academic background profoundly influenced his writing style, embedding philosophical inquiries in his narratives and essays.
Wallace grew up in Illinois and attended Amherst College and the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he earned his MFA. He taught English at Emerson College, Illinois State University, and Pomona College. After struggling with depression for many years, he died by suicide in 2008, at age 46.
