William Faulkner, born William Cuthbert Faulkner on September 25, 1897, in New Albany, Mississippi, is celebrated as one of the most significant American authors of the 20th century. He passed away on July 6, 1962, in Byhalia, Mississippi. Faulkner's literary contributions primarily encompass the Southern Gothic genre, where he explored complex themes of race, identity, and the human condition through his intricate narrative style.

Faulkner's early life was marked by the rich cultural tapestry of the American South. Growing up in Oxford, Mississippi, he was exposed to a blend of Southern traditions and the complexities of post-Civil War society. His family lineage, steeped in Southern history, influenced his understanding of the region's social dynamics and inspired many of his later works. Faulkner's early education included a brief stint at the University of Mississippi, where he began to develop his writing skills.

His literary career took off in the 1920s, with the publication of works such as "The Sound and the Fury" (1929) and "As I Lay Dying" (1930). Faulkner's unique narrative techniques, including stream of consciousness and multiple perspectives, set him apart from his contemporaries. He often returned to the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, a microcosm of the South, to explore themes of decay, family, and the passage of time. His mastery of language earned him numerous accolades, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1949.

In his personal life, Faulkner faced challenges, including struggles with alcoholism and financial instability. He married Estelle Franklin in 1929, and the couple had three daughters. Despite his tumultuous life, Faulkner's commitment to his craft remained steadfast, and he continued to write until his death. Today, his influence endures, making him a pivotal figure in American literature whose works continue to resonate with readers and writers alike.