• EssayBasics.com
  • Pay For Essay
  • Write My Essay
  • Homework Writing Help
  • Essay Editing Service
  • Thesis Writing Help
  • Write My College Essay
  • Do My Essay
  • Term Paper Writing Service
  • Coursework Writing Service
  • Write My Research Paper
  • Assignment Writing Help
  • Essay Writing Help
  • Call Now! (USA) Login Order now
  • EssayBasics.com Call Now! (USA) Order now
  • Writing Guides

My Future Ambition (Essay Sample)

Table of Contents

My Future Ambition (Sample Essay)

https://unsplash.com/photos/A6QEpNxE8uo

While growing up every kid and teenager dreams about what they want to become in the future. We all have different ambitions in life and they usually keep on changing as we keep on growing. Our ambitions define how we act and behave by providing aim to our lives. An ambitious person is much more focused and attentive as compared to a person with no aim in life. Inspiration and influence are the driving forces behind the ambition. People want to become like those who influence and inspire them. I also have the ambition to become a medical doctor someday.  In this future ambition essay, I will discuss why I have a strong desire to become a doctor and who is the source of influence for me.

My Future Ambition Essay Example – 700 Word Long Essay

https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-child-sitting-on-chair-while-holding-tablet-4145146/

Everyone has a goal and ambition in life. As kids, we all dreamt about what we wanted to become in the future. People usually dream of being rich, living a good life, and owning a huge company, but for me, my ambition is to help humanity by becoming a doctor. My ambition in life is to be the best doctor and serve my community. As a doctor, I will serve my people by offering important medical services to save their lives. I will help the sick and needy patients no matter what their financial position is. Even if my patients could not afford my fee I will help them without asking for money. Unlike doctors nowadays who ask for large sums of money, I will help needy people on the basis of humanity and their smiles will be my fee.

A good doctor gives hope and encourages patients to look at the bright side of life. When I become a doctor, I will help the poor and the needy and will volunteer my services to ease their problems. My ambition of becoming a doctor gives me a sense of direction in life. Being a doctor means studying hard and getting good grades to go to the best medical school. For me becoming a doctor is not just a career, it is a symbol of joy and hope.

The journey is not easy, it requires a lot of sacrifices, but I have confidence that I will become a successful doctor. I will make a difference in my community by treating needy patients and educating poor students for free. I will treat my patient with respect and ensure that patients feel comfortable at all times. I will not ask for huge sums of money even for rich patients because it’s unfair to do so. I wish that I would one day fulfill my dreams to serve my community.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photo-of-a-stethoscope-40568/

My ambition to become a doctor is not only my dream but also my parents’ dream. They see the potential in me and want me to progress towards achieving my ambition. I remember my grandmother died from cancer because my parents could not afford the treatment expense. My father wept for months after my grandmother passed away and blamed himself because he had no money. I saw my father in pain and agony and I don’t want that to happen to anyone ever again. My father is also proud of my ambition and he appreciates all my efforts to achieve this goal.

When I was a little boy, I always wanted to help those in need. I liked volunteering my services. During my free time, I would take care of my old grandmother who encouraged me to consider a career in medicine. Initially, I thought of being a singer because I loved singing, but I never considered being a doctor because it required much dedication. As I grew up and met many people in need of medical services, therefore I reshaped my ambition and left every other thing aside. I realized that I had the potential of becoming a doctor after I attended my first training as a volunteer at a local hospital. The experience changed my life.

After volunteering at the local hospital, I received positive feedback from the supervisor who recommended me for an exchange program. The program enabled me to get the chance to study medicine in one of the prestigious medical schools in the US. I try to do my best to become a good doctor by studying hard. I have many plans after I complete my studies and become a successful doctor. I also made a vow to myself that I would be faithful to my duties and respectful to my ambition.

Short Essay Sample On My Future Ambition – 300 Word Short Custom Essay

https://unsplash.com/photos/CgIFBwOkApI

People always ask kids and teens about what they want to become in the future once they grow up. At some time in life, we all have wondered about our future ambitions in life. What we want to achieve or become is mostly influenced by the people and things that surround us. Children and teenagers want to become like people who inspire and influence them. Our ambition gives us purpose in life and we all want to become like someone. For me, I have an ambition of becoming a great dancer someday.

My Future Ambition

As a kid, I always asked myself: “That is ambition important in life?” I realized that ambition depends upon our interest, choice, and our role model in life. I had an interest in dancing and my role model was none other than Michael Jackson. From that day onwards I made dancing my future ambition and started practicing every day to improve my skill. Another reason I chose this as my future ambition is that everyone only wants to become a doctor or engineer. I want to remove this negative stigma when it comes to choosing passion over money. 

Why I Chose this Ambition?

It seems odd to people that I have chosen to become a dancer. I chose dancing because it lets me express myself, I feel relieved, and all my stress goes away. I also like the crowd groans when they are just amazed to see you move and I start feeling good about myself.

Other than all that dancing teaches us many life lessons of hard work, patience, determination, and consistency. These lessons don’t just make you a better dancer but also a better person in life. Through this ambition, I also want to eliminate all the negative stigmas associated with a creative career path. I want to tell people that engineers, lawyers, doctors, and scientists are not the only four professions in the world.

In Conclusion, everyone should be free to choose his/her ambition in life. Just like my parents, all parents should allow their children to choose any profession they want to. On the other hand, teenagers should also get good grades to enter their profession without a problem.

Do you like these sample essays about My Future Ambition? Reach out to Essay Basics to get a professionally written plagiarism-free and unique custom essay on any topic in less than 3 hours.

FAQ About My Ambition In Life Essay

How to write an essay about your future ambitions.

To write an essay on future ambition you have to tell about your ambition and then explain why you chose this ambition and what you want to achieve.

What Are Some Examples Of Ambition For The Future?

Doctor, pilot, soldier, engineer, lawyer, teacher, and scientist are some examples of most common future ambitions.

Is ambition important in life?

Yes, ambition is very important in life. Without any ambition, you will feel like you have no aim and that’s not good for emotional and mental well-being.

write an essay on my future ambition

My Ambition Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on my ambition.

Almost everyone dreams of something while growing up. We all have ambitions when we are little, which change as we grow up. Ambitions lead us to a definite aim in life. Furthermore, they help us focus on our goal no matter the cost. It drives us to do better in life. Ambitions differ from one person to another.

However, one common thing usually found is that over time, people switch their ambition to something else than that which they wished to be when little. We have many people in the medical field who wanted to be dancers. Similarly, some of the greatest politicians wanted to be artists. So we see how easily one gives up on their dreams and ambition to adapt to society.

My Ambition Essay

My Ambition

The ambition of any person’s life usually depends on their choice and interests. I aspire to be a great dancer . I have always had the knack for dancing from an early age. My parents always encouraged me to pursue my passion. Like most of the parents, they never discouraged me because it is not the most sought after career.

Subsequently, I wish to become a good dancer. I do not want the fame of being a dancer; rather I want the acclaim of being a good dancer. As my parents motivated me to pursue my dream, they enrolled me in dance classes. It helped me grow a lot as a dancer and also enhance my skills.

Most importantly, I wish to be a dance because I want to remove the stigma surrounding this career path. I want to set an example that you can do well in life if you’re not a doctor or engineer. Especially in India, where these two ambitions are considered the most valid.

I believe in the power of dance, and how it conveys the message without words. Dance is the language of the soul, and it makes me feel alive when I indulge in it.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Why I Chose this Ambition?

It would seem odd to choose to be a dancer as an ambition, especially when everyone is in the race of becoming a lawyer , doctor or engineer . But, I still believe that just because something is not common, doesn’t mean we cannot attain it.

write an essay on my future ambition

I wish to dance so I could teach others to become experts in this field. Furthermore, I wish to help the underprivileged section who are interested in this ambition. I want to reach a height which enables me to offer them proper dance training free of cost so they can reach great heights.

Above all, I wish to be the wind beneath their wings. I want to create awareness about the importance of dance and how it benefits us physically as well. I hope I can achieve this ambition of mine someday. Till then, I won’t leave any stone unturned in reaching the finish line.

FAQ on My Ambition Essay

Q.1 How do ambitions help people?

A.1 Ambitions helps people in focusing their mind to achieve a set goal. Furthermore, it trains them to be better in achieving their ambition.

Q.2 Why must one have an ambition?

A.2 We all must have at least one ambition to achieve in life. It teaches us the importance of discipline and hard work. Having ambition gives you something to look forward to each day. In addition, it makes you determined.

{ “@context”: “https://schema.org”, “@type”: “FAQPage”, “mainEntity”: [{ “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “How do ambitions help people?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Ambitions helps people in focusing their mind to achieve a set goal. Furthermore, it trains them to be better in achieving their ambition.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Why must one have an ambition?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”:”We all must have at least one ambition to achieve in life. It teaches us the importance of discipline and hard work. Having ambition gives you something to look forward to each day. In addition, it makes you determined.”} }] }

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

tutor

  • Travelling Essay
  • Picnic Essay
  • Our Country Essay
  • My Parents Essay
  • Essay on Favourite Personality
  • Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
  • Essay on Knowledge is Power
  • Essay on Gurpurab
  • Essay on My Favourite Season
  • Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Google Play

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

  • My Ambition Essay

ffImage

Essay on My Ambition

Every person, irrespective of age, has a dream or a wish to achieve something special in life. Even when I was very young, my relatives would ask about my ambition. While I did not know what it meant, now I understand what they meant. Ambition is all about considering what I want to become in life. It helps us to form a particular aim in my life. It also refers to concentrating on a specific goal.

My Ambition

The ambition in anybody's life would depend on the interests and choices of the person. My ambition is to become a fitness guide in the future. Though my parents feel that it is quite an unusual choice for me, they are very encouraging about it. My parents are well aware of my interest in outdoor sports, as well as in yoga and Karate. They have always supported me to follow my passion. 

Accordingly, they have enrolled me in yoga, swimming and Karate classes. I also play badminton regularly with my father. They have promised to help me in every way that they can provide. I never ignore my studies. Becoming a fitness expert might not be a very sought after choice, but my parents are happy with the choice nevertheless.

Why This Ambition?

From a very tender age, I have seen my grandparents very enthusiastic about morning walks and yoga. My mother would visit the gym and meditation classes regularly. And she was also very careful about what we eat. This is how I developed a liking for physical fitness. Now, I have become very passionate about different types of exercises. Also, I love communicating with people. It makes me feel great when I meet new people, talk to them and help them in any possible way. As a fitness guide, I may get the opportunity to meet new people, understand their problems and make them look and feel better with the right exercises. Moreover, if they have a healthy and fit body, then they would feel more confident than ever.

Also, I don't like to stick to a regular desk job. I feel that as a fitness expert, every working day is going to be different. I will have people of all age groups and from different walks of life coming to me. Each of them would have unique fitness needs. Every day, I will have a new challenge and something new to the plan.

What I Want To Do

As a fitness trainer, it would be my priority to instruct and give support to those who come to me. Depending on their physical condition and their needs, I would suggest and create workout plans. I will have to earn expertise in different forms of work out. I will use my knowledge and experience to create customized exercise plans. I can lead group classes, provide one to one sessions or combine both. Also, to keep me upgraded, I will keep on learning new exercise techniques.

Where to Work?

A fitness instructor can either be a freelancer or have his or her fitness studio. Several professionals also work in boutique hotels, as well as in gyms, hospitals, schools and similar places. Even in keeping with the trend of working from home after COVID 19 scenario, I have seen that some professionals are offering online classes as well. 

Before that, I will have to get a degree or diploma in fitness courses. It is also essential to develop my communication skills. For that, I may have to join special grooming classes. Also, I will need to research the latest developments and trends in fitness training. This will help me to perform even better.

Different types of fitness classes, such as aerobics, HIIT, Pilates, yoga, dance, cycling and the like are becoming more popular than ever. This is gradually increasing the job opportunity for fitness experts. Also, the modern lifestyle has become very sedentary. There is minimal scope for outdoor activities and rigorous physical exercise. So even some young people are suffering from severe conditions like diabetes, obesity and hypertension. So almost everyone, at one time or another, looks for a trainer for help.

Fitness is no more a bodybuilding game. It is all about following good postures, eating right and staying confident. This is where I might help.

arrow-right

FAQs on My Ambition Essay

1. What is the importance of ambition in life?

Ambition is a powerful motivator for human development. Without a healthy dose of ambition, no one can prosper. Those that aspire to be more, learn more, accomplish more, give more, or have more have a strong internal drive that propels them to dream greater and go further. They are motivated by an ambition to advance and achieve their objectives. Ambition shows healthy self-esteem and a higher power of abstraction and imagery of the future when it is well-directed and supported by values. As they get closer to their goals, ambitious folks have a glitter in their eyes. They have a higher vibration and a contagious passion for completing tasks. They motivate and inspire others.

It is important to remember that ambition does not imply a lack of morals or principles. It is not about a lack of control or being manipulative, as many people in Western civilisation believe. Ambition isn't valued here. We are afraid of it and distrust it. We are prone to conflating it with unbridled ambition. It is as if every ambitious person was born with the ability and willingness to cause harm to others. Of course, there are others with unrestrained ambition—the evil guy in the story stereotyped—who are capable of doing everything and running over anyone to accomplish what they want. However, persons with a healthy and positive amount of ambition are not inherently disqualified from succeeding and doing good at the same time. 

2. What are the disadvantages of being excessively ambitious?

This is a positive attribute in general, especially for people who are seeking to start their own business. Obviously, if you are more naturally motivated to establish and achieve goals, you will have a better chance of succeeding than someone who is not, right?

This is not always the case, though. Extreme ambition may, in fact, cause more harm than good in some circumstances. If you believe you are a person who is very ambitious, you should be aware of the following potentially dangerous side effects.

Fixation on the End Result: The tendency to focus too narrowly on one vision or ultimate goal is the first major adverse consequence of excessive ambition. For example, if your objective is to make $1 million by the age of 30, everything that doesn't appear to push you closer to that goal may seem pointless.

For two reasons, this is an issue. For starters, it limits your ability to adjust to new situations. If a new rival appears to be posing a danger to your organisation, you may need to adapt your strategy and goals, even if it means departing from your initial vision. This will be difficult if you have too much ambition.

Unfettered Growth: Excessive ambition can also lead to an overabundance of desire to advance. And, as you are probably aware, uncontrolled, excessively rapid expansion can lead to a company's demise. When you develop too quickly, you wind up squandering money; you invest in people, equipment, and resources before you need them; and your internal structures become so disorganised that keeping up is practically impossible.

Becoming Selfish: Being ambitious tends to make you more selfish, leading you to pursue personal ambitions at the expense of your family, friends, and community.

You might, for example, work late into the night instead of spending meaningful time with your spouse and child, or you might ignore your employees' demands and mental health in order to eke out a little more output. While this may help you make some short-term gains, relationships and community connections are greater predictors of success in the long run: These bonds are mutually beneficial, and they are considerably more vital to your mental health than ambition, which is the subject of my next section.

3. How to choose a career?

To choose your career, remember the following points:

Determine your Abilities and Passions: Choosing a career path is a significant decision. You will spend a large portion of your life at work, so make good career choices if you want to enjoy your job, stay motivated, and reach your full potential.

To begin, you must first understand yourself. This entails examining your abilities as well as your interests and values.

Consider your Options for a Career: Consider what your dream work sector would be, then examine the local, national, and worldwide employment markets to learn about its important trends. This will assist you in identifying other alternative career options as well as determining whether roles are expanding or dropping.

Make a Decision: You are now ready to start making choices. Combine what you have learned about yourself and your options with what you've learned about the graduate employment market.

Choose the role that most interests you from your list of work possibilities and one or two backup options in case you are unable to pursue your initial pick.

4. How to relax in life?

Breathe it out: One of the most basic relaxation techniques, breathing exercises can successfully soothe your stressed-out body and mind at any moment. Spot one hand on your belly and sit or lie down in a calm and safe place in your house, such as your bed or the floor. Inhale slowly to a count of three, then exhale slowly to the same count of three. As you breathe in and out, notice how your tummy rises and falls. Repeat five times, or as many times as necessary to feel at ease.

5. How to fight laziness?

Burnout can be caused by setting unreasonable objectives and taking on too much. Burnout symptoms are recognised by medical specialists, despite the fact that it is not a clinical diagnosis. Burnout at work can lead to exhaustion, a lack of interest and ambition, and a desire to leave. Set realistic and manageable goals that will get you where you want to go without overwhelming you along the way to avoid overloading.

Negative self-talk can sabotage your efforts to accomplish goals in many areas of your life. Negative self-talk includes telling yourself that you are a slacker. Go to the Vedantu app and website for free study materials.

6. What is the difference between aim and ambition in life?

Having an aim in life is as essential as having an ambition. Aim refers to a specific goal that a particular person might want to reach. However, ambition means a very strong wish to achieve what one aims in life. It is out of ambition that we can set realistic targets, plan and work to get the results. Serious ambition can keep people motivated and well-directed.

7. Why is ambition important?

With ambition, there is a strong desire to achieve something positive. It gives all the motivation to chase dreams. This, in turn, helps our mind to look for new scopes and opportunities, as well as find new strategies to reach our goals.

8. How to find your ambition?

Not every idea that comes to mind is an ambition. To find your true ambition, you need to take some time. Think about what you like to do in life. Also, think if you have any idea to use your favourite activity to do something fruitful. Also, consider the activities that you think are giving a lot of effort. These steps will help you to find your true ambition.

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how do i write a college essay about my future goals.

I have some pretty clear goals for my future, and I think writing about them in my college essay might help me stand out. How can I approach this topic in a way that's engaging and doesn't sound like I'm just listing my ambitions? Thanks for any suggestions!

Hey there! Writing about your future goals is a great idea for a college essay, and it can definitely help you stand out. The key is to tell a story that highlights your goals while also showcasing your personality and experiences.

Start by reflecting on your past experiences and achievements that have led you to these goals. You could talk about a specific moment or event that inspired your ambition, and then explain how it has driven you ever since. This helps to show your passion and dedication towards your goals.

Next, focus on your present efforts to work towards these goals. You could mention any relevant extracurricular activities, internships, or projects you've been involved in that align with your future aspirations. This demonstrates your commitment and hard work.

Finally, discuss your future goals in a way that ties everything together and shows the admissions committee how you plan to make a positive impact in the world. Remember to be authentic and genuine in your writing, and don't be afraid to show some vulnerability. Good luck with your essay!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

  • Dissertation
  • PowerPoint Presentation
  • Book Report/Review
  • Research Proposal
  • Math Problems
  • Proofreading
  • Movie Review
  • Cover Letter Writing
  • Personal Statement
  • Nursing Paper
  • Argumentative Essay
  • Research Paper
  • Discussion Board Post

How to Craft a Great Essay About Ambition

Jason Burrey

Table of Contents

Ambitions are one of the most interesting and inspiring topics for an essay. But, writing an essay about ambition can be a challenging task for students, as not all of them clearly understand what they should write about.

Here we will share with you everything about an ambition essay and how to write it. Keep reading to find useful tips and step-by-step writing guidelines.

What Is an Ambitious Essay ?

The first thing you need to understand to create a good essay is what is the meaning of ambition. Basically, it is a strong will to achieve success in something. The goal can be power, wealth, fame, academic or professional success, or anything else a person wants to achieve in her life.

And an ambition essay is all about this desire to succeed in something. It is a wide topic, so students can choose to discuss its different aspects and dive as deep into the topic as they want (of course, only if there are no specific requirements from your professor). 

For example, one can write about his personal ambitions, while another will develop an essay around a controversial question about ambitions. There are enough topics for an ambition essay, so everyone can find an interesting perspective and create a great ambition essay . And we will help you with it.

How to Create a Thesis for an Ambition Essay ?

When you start working on any essay, the first step is to identify the central point you want to discuss. It is the same for ambition essays — before going straight to writing, you need to narrow down the topic and develop your thesis statement.

Wondering how to understand what topic is the best for your ambition essay ? Here are the main criteria that will help you to identify a good topic:

  • Fresh and original
  • Interesting for you
  • Not too broad
  • A bit controversial.

If you are asked to write an essay on a specific question then you can skip this step and move to develop your thesis statement. A good thesis should clearly explain your position and map out what you will talk about in your ambition essay . Brainstorm your ideas on the chosen question (topic), take a look at the problem from different sides, and decide what position you will take. Then, create a short and precise sentence that conveys your main point in the best way.

My Ambition Essay : Writing Guide

Now, let’s talk about the structure of an ambition essay . Usually, it has a 5-paragraphs structure, as any other essay:

  • Introduction (1 paragraph): background information and a thesis statement.
  • Main body (3 paragraphs): arguments and evidence, each argument takes one paragraph.
  • Conclusion (1 paragraph): summary of your arguments.

Let’s imagine that you write about the ambitions and success of a famous person that inspires you. Here is an example of how you can develop your essay:

  • Answering yourself, what in the story of this person inspires you? Maybe, they went through tough times to achieve success and their ambitions helped them with it. Provide some background information and generate a thesis statement — what lesson about ambitions did you learn from the person’s story?
  • Provide some arguments to back up your thesis statement. You need to show your readers that your point of view is based on evidence, not just your subjective thoughts.
  • Conclude your arguments to reinforce your position. In this paragraph, you can also show how the lesson from the person’s story applies to you or other people.

The Key Secrets of Writing a Good Article on Ambition in Life

To write a good ambition essay , you need to have good writing skills, know how to explain your thoughts clearly and create a paragraph flow. All these skills can be improved with practice, but there are some ways to create a great essay even if you’re a beginner. Here are some recommendations from professionals for you:

  • If you don’t know what to write about, check some examples of ambition essays. It will inspire you with interesting ideas and give you a better understanding of how to structure your paper.
  • Don’t write too many arguments to back up your thesis statement. Choose only the most relevant points and present them in different paragraphs to improve readability.
  • Start by writing an outline for your work. It will help you to understand how to organize all your thoughts.
  • Don’t forget to proofread your essay. Once you finish writing, step back and take a look at the text to make sure all points are presented in the logical order and you don’t make mistakes.

Final Thoughts on Ambition Essay Writing

Discussing ambitions can be hard for students, but it is definitely one of the most interesting topics. When you write an ambition essa y, it is important to focus on a specific question and present your thoughts clearly. Follow our tips to improve your essay and impress the readers. Or, you can always ask for assistance from professionals!

How do you write a paragraph for ambition?

A paragraph for ambition usually includes a thesis statement, persuasive arguments that back up your thesis, and a conclusion that summarizes your points. You need to state your position and then logically develop your arguments to incline the audience to accept your idea.

What is your ambition in your life essay?

Ambitions are strong desires to achieve something or get success in any sphere of life. When you write about your ambition in your life, you need to explain your perspective of what ambitions are, how they help you to achieve your goals, and why they are important or not important for you.

How do I talk about my ambition?

When you need to write about your ambitions, you can focus on different aspects. For example, you can answer the questions “What does ambition mean to you?”, “What are your thoughts on the importance of ambition in people’s lives?”. Or you can describe your story, what ambitions you have, and how they help you to succeed.

1 Star

TOP 100 Gender Equality Essay Topics

write an essay on my future ambition

Writing a Good Tornado Research Paper

write an essay on my future ambition

Simple Tips On Writing The George Washington Essay

CbseAcademic.in

Essay on My Ambition 500+ Words

Ambition is like a spark that ignites the fire within us. It’s that inner drive that propels us to achieve our dreams and reach for the stars. In this essay, we will explore the significance of having ambition in our lives and how it can shape our future.

Ambition Provides Purpose

Having ambition gives our lives purpose and direction. Imagine a ship sailing without a destination; it would wander aimlessly. Similarly, without ambition, we might drift through life without clear goals. Statistics show that individuals with defined ambitions are more likely to succeed in their endeavors. For instance, a study revealed that 90% of accomplished people had strong ambitions.

Ambition Drives Achievement

Ambition is the driving force behind great accomplishments. It pushes us to work hard, set goals, and strive for excellence. Consider the example of Thomas Edison, whose ambition to invent the light bulb led to one of the greatest inventions in history. Experts agree that ambition is a key factor in achieving success. In fact, a survey of successful individuals found that 80% attributed their achievements to ambition.

Fosters Growth

Ambition encourages personal growth and development. When we set ambitious goals, we are motivated to acquire new skills and knowledge. It challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and explore our potential. Psychologists suggest that ambition is closely linked to self-improvement. Studies have shown that people who pursue personal growth through ambition tend to lead more fulfilling lives.

Ambition Overcomes Challenges

Life is full of obstacles and setbacks. However, ambition equips us with the resilience to overcome these challenges. When we face difficulties, our ambition acts as a guiding light, helping us persevere. A famous example is the story of J.K. Rowling, who faced rejection and adversity but never gave up on her ambition to become a successful author.

Ambition Inspires Others

Ambition is not only a personal motivator but also an inspiration to those around us. When others witness our determination and drive, they too are encouraged to set and pursue their own goals. Teachers often emphasize the importance of ambition as a positive influence on society. Ambitious individuals are more likely to give back to their communities and make a difference.

Conclusion of Essay on My Ambition

In conclusion, ambition is the force that fuels our dreams and propels us towards success. It gives our lives purpose, drives our achievements, fosters personal growth, and empowers us to overcome challenges. Ambition is not a distant concept; it’s a quality that each one of us can nurture and harness. So, whether your ambition is to become a doctor, a scientist, an artist, or anything else, know that it has the power to shape your future and lead you to greatness.

As you embark on your journey through life, remember the words of Helen Keller: “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” Let your ambition be your guiding star, and you’ll find that the possibilities are endless. So, dream big, set ambitious goals, and work hard to make your dreams a reality. Your ambition is the key to unlocking the doors of success and leaving a lasting mark on the world.

Also Check: Simple Guide on How To Write An Essay

Essay on Ambition: Examples, Topics, & Tips

An ambition essay focuses on one’s strong desire to achieve success in one or several areas. It might be one’s career, finance, family, art, health, or all at once.

Writing an ambition essay, you might want to consider your own life or examples from the world literature. You can describe your own academic or career goals. Do you want to succeed as a teacher, doctor, engineer, or accountant?

Another idea is to analyze how the theme of ambition is used in in literary works. Macbeth by Shakespeare and Great Expectations by Dickens are just some of the examples.

In this article by custom writing experts, you’ll find a definition of ambition, a writing guide, a collection of ambition essay topics, as well as examples of ambition and career goal essays.

  • ❓ Ambition: Examples & Definiton
  • 📰 4 Steps to Perfect Ambition Essay
  • 📑 40 Ambition Essay Topics

✍ Essays on Ambition: Examples

❓ ambition: examples & definiton.

At first, the meaning of ambition may be fairly difficult for you to comprehend. Still, everything will be clear after your strong desire to present a successful my ambition essay will help you achieve this purpose.

Let’s turn to the dictionary for explanation and figure it out what is ambition. According to Meriam-Webster Dictionary, the word “ambition” has three meanings:

  • The strongest to achieve something or gain power or fame
  • The desire for exertion or a certain activity
  • The object of ambition

The “ambition” word origin goes down to the Ancient Rome. Candidates for public office had to spend a lot of their time convincing voters to elect them. The root of the Latin word was “ambire” that meant “to go around.” Later it transformed to “ambitio,” with the meaning “the desire for power or honor.”

In late Middle Ages, the “ambitio” came into English and French as “ambition.”

Therefore, a key to writing successful ambition essays lies in being ambitious yourself while writing, thinking over, analyzing, and making conclusions.

📰 Ambition Essay: 4-Step Writing Guide

Unfortunately, this is not enough to get the highest grade on ambition essays. You also have to take the following steps:

  • Decide on the perspective to consider ambition from It is the starting point in preparing essays on ambition. A good thesis statement should intrigue, involve, and attract. You can also present your standpoint in several sentences in the introductory part of your ambition essay.
  • Think of the best and clearest reasons to explain your opinion Good essays on ambition should be well grounded. You do not need to obtrude your opinion upon the reader. You should incline the reader to accept your point of view in a persuasive manner. Remember about it when supporting your statements in the essay on ambition.

A good argument in an essay has 3 points: a thight (specific focus), problems and solutions.

  • Analyze arguments you picked for your ambition essay Assess your arguments you’re going to present your readers. Is your evidence strong enough to persuade the reader? Pick up some controversial arguments and show why they are misleading. Think about hooks for your essays.
  • Strike the reader with an impressive conclusion A conclusion is one more chance to impress. The best way to make the conclusion impressive is to use a rhetoric question. A good rhetoric question will make the reader speculate upon what you said even after he/she finishes reading.

📑 40 Ambition Essay Topics

Do you know the secret of writing the perfect essay? It’s a well-picked topic. That’s why we gathered some issues that you can consider in your ambition essay:

  • Ambitions and success. What does success mean to you? Think how ambitions correlate with success.
  • Ambitions and career growth. How does career growth depend on a person’s goal? What happens when the career path does not meet your aspirations? 
  • Destructive power of ambitions. Analyze whether ambitions can ruin someone’s life. Try to find supporting arguments in the literature. 
  • Goals and ambitions in life. Does an “ambition” mean the same as a “goal”? How do aspirations can help you achieve your goals?
  • What is an ambition ? Explore the topic and state your opinion on what this word means to you.
  • Ambitions and motivation. Think what stimulates you most to achieve high results and why. This could be an excellent topic for your motivation essay.
  • Ambitions and women’s rights. If you write a woman empowerment essay, you can explore how ambitious women change the world. Why are there so many grants and awards encouraging woman to become leaders in various industries? Turn to history and explore how women fought for their rights and how this fight influenced the ambitions of modern women.
  • Ambitions and poor people. If you’re writing a poverty essay, explore how people who are born poor satisfy their ambitions. What dreams do they have? Does it mean if someone who was born poor, they will live in poverty their entire life? 
  • Ambitions and minorities. You can pick this topic for your human rights essay. Discover how equal rights affect the aspirations of different minority representatives .
  • Ambitions and their impact on your health . Are you assigned to write a health essay? Think about how ambitions impact on human’s mental and physical health. What happens when you successfully achieved your goals? And how do you feel when you can’t satisfy your ambitions?
  • Ambitions and gender. Are you looking for topic ideas for you gender equality essay? Think about ambitions. Do men and women have similar dreams or not? What’s the difference between men’s and women’s goals? Make a list of top ambitions to have in life for both genders.
  • Your ambition in life. This is an excellent topic for your personal statement or “about me” essay. Where do you see yourself in the next ten years? Do you have a career plan ?
  • Ambitions and athletes. You can explore how ambitions help athletes to achieve excellent results when writing an essay on sports. What ambitions should they have to succeed?

Lionel Messi quote.

  • Ambitions and family. When you write “my family” essay, you may tell how your family influenced your ambitions. Do they support you? How do your goals impact your family life?
  • Ambitions and their impact on our lives. Can your ambitions cause specific troubles in your life? If so, how can you solve these issues? Use this topic for your problem and solution essay.
  • Best ambition in life. Explore what ambitions everyone should have. Are there goals that every person needs to achieve in their lives? Make a list of top ambitions in life to have.

  • Destructive impact of dreams on your life. This is a great topic for your dreams and ambitions essay. How can our dreams and ambitions ruin everything? Find supporting arguments in literature.
  • Good ambitions to have in life. Can ambitions be divided into good and bad? Why can people have bad ambitions? Provide some examples of good and bad ambitions.
  • Ambitions and habits. What habits do you have that help you reach your goals? When you are assigned to write a personal essay, you may use this topic. What habits should ambitious people have to succeed in life?

Tesla greatest ambition: wirelessly transmit energy across long distances using only air as a medium.

  • Ambitions and their impact on self-development . If you’re writing a personal growth essay, think how your aims and ambitions impact on your self-improvement . What makes you want to learn more? What personal development techniques help you to achieve your goals in life?
  • Describe your career aspirations in the profession you’ve chosen.
  • Is it true that gender roles in family often influence children’s aspirations? 
  • Analyze the role of gender stereotypes in career ambitions.
  • Discuss the aspirations of your community and the ways to implement them.
  • Explain how to become a successful leader.
  • Describe your attitude towards the article Goodbye Career, Hello Success by Randy Comissar.
  • Is there any common motivation that fits for every person? Explain.  
  • Can ethical behavior and keeping moral obligations be considered ambitions?  
  • Examine the connection between educational and career goals.
  • Why do people make professional development plan ?
  • Discuss how your present education will help you to achieve your future career goals.
  • Explain what the mathematics teacher career goals are and how they can be achieved.
  • Describe an event or a person that helped you to define your present career goals.
  • Analyze what being successful means in your surrounding and how it influences your ambitions.
  • Explore how the path to success is depicted in American literature.
  • Examine how the word success is understood by different people.
  • Discuss what soft skills are necessary for your personal and professional success.
  • Is hard work really the best way to achieve your career ambitions?
  • What qualities do you need to develop to achieve success ?
  • Explain whether good education is crucial for fulfillment of your ambitions.

In this section, you’ll find a list of essay examples about ambition. Most of them focus on career goals and plans. We hope that these samples will inspire you to write your own paper.

  • Teaching Profession and Career Possibilities
  • Career Management in Business
  • Musical Career: Personal Philosophy and Career Goals
  • Senior-Year Students Exploring Career Options
  • Career Opportunity in the Accounting Industry
  • Business Career Plan for the Next 5 Years
  • Career Growth in Management
  • Pharmacy: A Career Pathway
  • Human Resource Manager’s Career Opportunities

Since essays on ambition relate to philosophy, information on how to write a Philosophy essay or essays on happiness can be much useful to you.

Are you an ambitious person? Tell us in comments below!

This might be interesting for you:

  • Example of Autobiography about Yourself: How to Start
  • How to Write an Autobiography: Questions & What to Include
  • All about Me Essay: How to Write, Ideas and Examples
  • Personal Essay: How to Write, Tips and Essay Topics
  • Reflexive Essay: How to Write, Topics and Paper Example

🔗 References

  • Importance of Ambitions in Life Essay
  • Ambition Essays at Cram
  • Ambition Essay for Students and Children
  • Interview Questions About Your Goals for the Future
  • On the Importance of Goal Setting: 6 Reasons why You Need to Set Goals
  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to Twitter
  • Share to LinkedIn
  • Share to email

Essay for Primary School: Simple Guide for Kids [with Samples]

The age of primary school students ranges from 5 to 11 years. At this stage of education, children start developing their writing skills. They make their first steps to analyzing and proving their points of view. Besides, they study how to write an essay for elementary school. Correctly preparing all...

Canadian Identity Essay: 20 Essay Topics and Writing Guide

Canadian identity is something that has become really important for many Canadians in the past fifty years. Canada is a big, multinational country with its own traditions, culture, and history. However, because of quite a large number of foreigners and even Americans, its culture and people are associated with the...

142 Car Topics & Tips for Writing a College Essay about Cars

Let’s say you received a task to write an essay about cars. The topic might be interesting for you, but you may still have no idea how to organize your paper. Well, this article is for you.

Teenage Smoking Essay: Writing Guide & Smoking Essay Topics

Smoking can be viewed as one of the trendy habits. Numerous teenagers try it since they think that it is cool or can help them socialize. Often students start smoking due to stress or mental illnesses. But is it okay? Educators tend to give different written assignments, which may disclose...

Child Labor Essay: Thesis, Examples, & Writing Guide [2024]

Children have always been apprentices and servants all over human history. However, the Industrial Revolution increased the use of child labor in the world. It became a global problem that is relevant even today when such employment is illegal.

French Essay: Topics, Tips, and Examples [2024 Updated]

Nowadays, knowing several foreign languages is no longer surprising. For example, learning French is common for English-speaking countries. So, getting an assignment on this subject won’t be a surprise for a student.

How to Write a Dissertation Critique: Examples & Guide 2024

Dissertation critique writing develops the students’ critical and logical thinking abilities. When composing, the students learn to analyze the works conducted by other researchers. To critique a dissertation, you should: In this article, we will discuss the aspects of the dissertation critique writing in detail. Our experts gathered essential tips...

How to Write an Opinion Essay: Examples, Structure, & Tips

An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing which presents the author’s point of view on a particular subject supported by reasoning and examples. The opposing viewpoint is also suggested, but it is followed by arguments that show its inconsistency. Take a look at the guide prepared by Custom-writing experts to...

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples

So, you need to accomplish your discursive essay writing. The typical questions most students ask are: How do you write it? What is discursive essay? A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be...

How to Write a Good Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, & Step-by-Step Guide

How to write a narrative essay? To do that, you need to know what a narrative essay is. It is an academic text usually written as a story and containing all the usual elements of a story. Narrative essays are often personal, experiential, and creative. Still, they should be made...

College Essay Writing 101—the Comprehensive Guide [2024]

So, you can’t wait to get into college and join a fraternity, sorority, or student union. Well, we have some incredibly useful tips and helpful information for college admission essay writing! Remember: getting into college takes more than money. And outstanding essays get you great college scholarships!

Americanism Essay: Examples, Tips & Topics [2024 Update]

It’s not hard to see why Americanism is one of the most popular essay topics. The concept of Americanism is in the center of the US identity. Writing an essay about it is an excellent way to find out more about this great country.

Simply amazing and really helpful! Keep it up!

You can certainly see your enthusiasm within the work you write. The arena hopes for even more passionate writers like you, who are not afraid to say how they believe. Always go after your heart.

Nice and helpful article. Tips to keep in mind and use when writing an essay on ambition! Thanks for them!!!

Thanks! Thanks! Thanks! Your guide helped me with my essay on ambition. You have an amazing blog and posts! Keep it up!

English that goes straight to the heart

Short Essay on My Ambition

An essay is a piece of writing that revolves around a particular theme and contains the academic opinions of the person writing it. 

In this post, you will find a brilliant short essay on my ambition.

Daily Test - Attempt Now

Short Essay on My Ambition

Short Essay on My Ambition #1

My ambition in life is to become a physician and fulfil a great need in my village. Despite boasting many good things, my village lacks qualified doctors, forcing sick individuals to seek treatment from untrained individuals. This results in many deaths each year due to a lack of proper medical attention. After completing my Higher Secondary Examination, I have decided to pursue medicine and become an MBBS. My goal is to return to my village and establish a dispensary within my home where I will provide free treatment to impoverished patients. The medical profession will allow me to save countless lives from death’s grasp.

Short Essay on My Ambition #2

Having an ambition in life is crucial for achieving success. My ambition is to become a teacher as I believe it is a noble and responsible profession. The misery and distress in our country are due to the lack of education and illiteracy among people. Thus, I aim to spread education among the masses as much as I can within my capacity as a teacher. My goal is to impart man-making education that emphasizes moral values rather than the pursuit of money. As a teacher, I want to be a respected and beloved figure in society. Although the road ahead may be challenging, I will try my best to achieve my aim.

Short Essay on My Ambition #3

Ambition is a crucial objective in life that helps one to succeed. Having a goal is essential to guide one’s path in life. As a future citizen of my country, I understand that I have certain duties towards society and my country. Education is the foundation for the progress of any nation. Therefore, my ambition in life is to spread education. However, any noble work requires financial support.

After completing my graduation, I plan to join my father’s business, which will be a good source of earning money. I intend to use a significant portion of my profits to provide education and medical treatment to impoverished villagers. My plan includes setting up schools for children, night schools for adults, libraries, and training centres for young boys and girls to help them secure employment. I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of many people with my ambitions. Even though the path ahead may be challenging, I will put in my best efforts to achieve my goal.

You Asked, We Listened – Get Free Access to All Writing Lists 😍😍

Problem Solution Short Paragraph Examples

Top 8 Problem Solution Short Paragraph Examples

Long Paragraphs

Top 10 Long Paragraphs that Teach You a Lesson

Daily reading comprehension test - attempt now, discover more from english luv.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email


Continue reading

  • Growth & Development
  • Play & Activities
  • Life Skills
  • Play & Learning
  • Learning & Education
  • Rhymes & Songs
  • Preschool Locator

FirstCry Intelli Education

How To Write An Essay On ‘My Ambition In Life’ For Children

Shaili Contractor

Key Points To Remember: Essay On ‘My Ambition In Life’ For Lower Primary Classes

Essay on ‘my ambition is to become a doctor’, essay on ‘my ambition is to become an engineer’, essay on ‘my ambition in life is to become a police officer’, essay on ‘my ambition in life is to become an ias officer’, essay on ‘my ambition in life is to become a lawyer’, essay on ‘my ambition in life is to become a nurse’, essay on ‘my ambition in life is to become a teacher’, what will your child learn from an essay on my ambition in life.

To become any professional, one has to devote years to studying. No one can just become a doctor, scientist, engineer, or even businessman in one day! They have to plan for their career, and then study that profession. Most professions need years of education, starting from the subjects chosen in the school. Therefore, teachers and parents keep asking and inspiring young kids to choose a specific profession to guide them accordingly. To make young kids think about their ambition or dream, they are asked to write an essay on ‘My Ambition in Life’ in school. This essay helps the kids dream about what they want to be, and improve their English creative writing, vocabulary and grammar.

Young students of lower primary classes might need guidance with essays on ‘My Ambition in Life’. When writing this essay, there are a few key points that will make it easy to write this about any profession of their choice. Some of these key points to remember when writing an essay on My Ambition in Life are:

  • Write about your ambition with a brief introduction to that profession
  • Write about the positive aspects of that profession
  • Explain what inspires you to pursue that profession
  • Mention any role models of that profession that inspired you

Being a doctor is considered a popular and noble profession. Therefore, when asked to write a short essay on My Ambition, most young kids write about becoming a doctor. Here is a sample essay in English on ‘My Ambition Is To Become A Doctor’ for kids:

My life’s ambition is to become a good doctor. There are many reasons why I want to become a doctor. I admire doctors because they heal sick people and make them healthy. They work tirelessly to serve humankind. Some doctors even treat the poor free of charge. One of my uncles is a doctor and has a hospital. Whenever I go to his hospital, I see him checking patients and making them healthy. I, too, want to ease the pain and sickness of people. To become a successful doctor, I know I will have to study a lot. But after years of studying, when I am able to make people healthy, it will be rewarding!

My life’s dream is to become an engineer. Engineers are responsible for making beautiful buildings, using machinery, and so much more. In short, they make our lives beautiful and easy. Everything is made by an engineer, from a pin to an aeroplane and a bridge to even a tower! Engineers not only make things but also repair and maintain things. If it weren’t for engineers, our world would not have so many inventions. There are several types of engineers, such as mechanical, electrical, civil and aviation. I am fascinated with the working of machinery. So I want to become a mechanical engineer and invent machines to make life simpler.

My life ambition is to become a police officer. The profession of police is brave and interesting. Police officers maintain law and order in our society. They save us from thieves and other criminals. Our society has different types of people, some good and some bad. The bad try to harm the good people physically or by cheating them. Police ensure the bad people are caught and put in prison. They ensure peace and safety in society. When I grow up and become a police officer, I want to catch criminals and make society a safe place for everyone.

Every kid dreams of becoming someone important and successful when they grow up. I too want to be someone important when I grow up. I also want to serve my country and make India the best country to live in. Therefore, I want to become an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. An IAS officer makes sure the country is functioning properly. They are the people who ensure the government projects, plans and schemes are executed properly. They also ensure the government funds are utilised honestly for the welfare of their fellow citizens. So as an IAS officer, I will make my county proud of my work.

Most kids want to become doctors or engineers when they grow up. But, I dream of becoming a lawyer when I grow up. A lawyer is a professional who helps people fight their judicial battles and win them. In our society, there are many kinds of people. Some people take advantage of others and wrongly cheat them of their property, money or rights. To punish such bad people, the people who are harmed file suits in court against them. Lawyers fight their court cases and ensure they get justice. As a lawyer, I will help the police send criminals to jail, and ensure that good people get justice.

Ever since I was a baby, I have been fascinated with nurses. Every time I visited the hospital with my parents for check-ups, the lovely nurses there pampered me a lot. Their smiling faces and caring attitude always impressed me. They are very helpful and caring. More than doctors, the nurses take care of the patients, and they are the ones who give medicines and injections and look after patients day and night. Therefore, it’s my dream to become a nurse when I grow up. As a nurse, I want to treat and care for people in their sicknesses and see them getting better.

Students are influenced by their teachers in their lives. So, it’s no wonder when asked to write a composition on my ambition in life, most students write that they want to become teachers. Here is a sample essay for class 1, 2 & 3 students on ‘My Ambition in Life is to Become a Teacher:

We become what we are due to the teachings and learnings we get in our lives. Apart from our parents, we learn so much from our teachers. Teachers play the most important part in education, starting from preschool to graduation degrees. Whatever profession we choose, we need a teacher to teach it to us. Whether it’s studying to become a doctor, engineer, or scientist, it would be impossible without a teacher. A teacher is responsible for not only imparting education but for teaching moral values to make their students better human beings and citizens. A teacher’s responsibility is to make the students realise and achieve their potential. A teacher is the one who lays the foundation of a good society. Therefore, my goal in life is to become a teacher.

I want to be a primary school teacher as I love teaching young children. Imparting good education to young kids ensures their foundation is strong. So as they progress in school, they will always be good at their studies. Also, young kids are the best learners and their inquisitive minds make teaching interesting. As their teacher, I want to motivate and inspire them to become good students and fulfil their dreams.

My Ambition In Life is an interesting essay topic to make young kids think about their dream in life. It makes them aware of different professions and gets them interested in learning about them. While writing an essay on my ambition in life, children will know what they want to become in life. Once they start learning about their chosen profession, they will be able to determine what they need to study and what subjects to pursue to realise their dream profession. 

Essay writing helps children learn new words, improve their grammar and expand their thinking. It also improves their general knowledge and English creative writing skills.

Essay On Honesty for Children Essay On Summer Vacation for Class 1, 2 and 3 Kids My Hobby Essay for Grade 1, 2 and 3 Children

  • Essays for Class 1
  • Essays for Class 2
  • Essays for Class 3

Shaili Contractor

Why Playing Alone Is Recommend For Kids

9 books that celebrate super dads, 9 things kids say that are code for “i’m anxious”, leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

Google search engine

Most Popular

Body positive affirmations for kids through books, shows, and movies, recent comments.

FirstCry Intelli Education

FirstCry Intelli Education is an Early Learning brand, with products and services designed by educators with decades of experience, to equip children with skills that will help them succeed in the world of tomorrow.

write an essay on my future ambition

The FirstCry Intellikit `Learn With Stories` kits for ages 2-6 brings home classic children`s stories, as well as fun activities, specially created by our Early Learning Educators.

write an essay on my future ambition

For children 6 years and up, explore a world of STEAM learning, while engaging in project-based play to keep growing minds busy!

write an essay on my future ambition

Build a love for reading through engaging book sets and get the latest in brain-boosting toys, recommended by the educators at FirstCry Intellitots.

write an essay on my future ambition

Our Comprehensive 2-year Baby Brain Development Program brings to you doctor-approved toys for your baby`s developing brain.

write an essay on my future ambition

Our Preschool Chain offers the best in education across India, for children ages 2 and up.

©2024 All rights reserved

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use

write an essay on my future ambition

Welcome to the world of Intelli!

We have some FREE Activity E-books waiting for you. Fill in your details below so we can send you tailor- made activities for you and your little one.

Parent/Guardian's Name

Child's DOB

What would you like to receive other than your Free E-book? I would like information, discounts and offers on toys, books and products I want to find a FirstCry Intellitots Preschool near me I want access to resources for my child's development and/or education

lead from image

Welcome to the world of intelli!

FREE guides and worksheets coming your way on whatsapp. Subscribe Below !!

email sent

THANK YOU!!!

Here are your free guides and worksheets.

write an essay on my future ambition

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

write an essay on my future ambition

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

write an essay on my future ambition

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

write an essay on my future ambition

Essay on My Aim in Life

dulingo

  • Updated on  
  • Apr 15, 2024

Essay on My Aim in Life

Writing an essay is like searching for your inner self. Have you ever wondered why professors or your teachers assign you these writing tasks ? Why don’t they simply ask you to express yourself in oral form? The logic behind their asking you to write an essay is fairly simple. It is easy for you to express yourself more logically when you write an essay. By assigning you an essay task, your teachers are trying to help you develop your writing skills, vocabulary , and your unique writing style. Essays form an integral part of many academic and scholastic exams like SAT, and UPSC among many others. It is a crucial evaluative part of English proficiency tests as well like IELTS , TOEFL , Duolingo , and many more. In this blog, we will learn how to write an essay on My Aim in Life.

This Blog Includes:

Why should you have an aim in life, how to achieve your aim, essay on my aim in life in 100 words, essay on my aim in life in 200 words, essay on my aim in life in 500 words, essay on my aim in life to become a doctor, essay on my aim in life to become a teacher, essay on my aim in life to become an engineer.

A man with no career goals in life will never be successful. All of his goals will be shattered or fail at some time. He walks with a limp in his daily existence. In life, it is essential to have a realistic objective or goal. It will give your existence a new layer of meaning. When you accomplish it, you will be able to discover your true purpose in life and set an example for others on how to live life to the fullest. Not only that but completing your objective will bring you and your family a great deal of joy and happiness.

Also Read: Essay on Yoga Day

Also Read: Speech on Yoga Day

The first and most important job is to exercise extreme caution when making a decision. A goal leads to the correct career. So, here are a few steps to remember at every stage of your existence.

  • Be proactive at all times
  • Keep a healthful and balanced lifestyle
  • Keep pessimism at bay
  • Procrastination should be avoided
  • Increase your skills
  • Accept your mistakes
  • Seek professional advice
  • Consider your ultimate destination
  • Keep track of your accomplishments
  • Maintain your concentration

The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don’t have an aim in our life, we won’t know where to reach. So if you want to be successful and do something in your life then you just need to pick an aim. There are so many aims in human life. I have an aim also. I want to become a professor. I hope I will be able to become a professor one day and I will study hard for it.

Also Read: Essay on Labour Day

Also Read: Essay on Gaganyaan

The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don’t have an aim in our life, we won’t know where to reach. I always wanted to be a professor and now my family is inspiring me to become a professor too. My parents are really supportive and they respect my decision. My favourite subject is English . My teachers are really helpful and they help me a lot to understand everything on this particular subject. They also guide me a lot about future decisions.

Ms. Divya is my English professor and she knows about my future plans. She always inspires me to do better and work harder. The reason behind My Future Plan: I have a few specific reasons for my future plan. I was once explaining some doubts of my classmates and I realized that I really like explaining and teaching. After my English Honours degree, I will prepare for the Master’s degree. I am pretty much confident about that and I know I will work hard to pursue my dream. Everyone should have a reasonable aim in their life that will help them to reach success.

Also Read : IELTS Essay Topics

The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don’t have an aim in our life, we won’t know where to reach. Thus to achieve it one has to overcome many obstacles and setbacks from time to time. I always wanted to be a professor and now my family is inspiring me to become a professor too. My parents are really supportive and they respect my decision. I have seen lots of my friends want to become a professor, and some of them want to pursue an MBA . There are a lot of aims and goals available that students can choose in their lives. Right now in this world, the top trending professions are Doctor, Teacher, Programmer, Designer, Architect, Marketer, Supervisor, Manager, Engineer, etc. Maybe you have something unique in you and you want to pursue that. So different people adopt different aims according to their inclinations, tastes or perceptions about life. My teachers are really helpful and are always guiding and helping me with my future plans. 

They have always inspired me to do better and work harder. I was once explaining some doubts to my classmates and I realized that I really like explaining and teaching. Later, I experienced teaching while doing an internship with an NGO. I went to a slum and taught kids there. I felt a different kind of satisfaction after teaching them. At that time I realized that I had never felt happier than this and decided to become a professor. I am one who enjoys exploring new places and getting to know new cultures, languages, and cuisines, and working as a professor offers many chances for me to develop those interests. After my English Honours degree, I will prepare for the Master’s degree. Then I am planning to take the UGC NET exam . Another big plus is the working hours that academia can offer, which are frequently more flexible than in other professions.

The biggest advantage of being a professor is that I find jobs in many places worldwide. I am really honest and passionate about my aim in life. It is surely a long journey but I will try my best to reach my goal and I suggest everyone do the same. According to me, timely execution of an action plan with a proactive attitude is the key to success. One of the best ways to stay motivated is by visualizing the change and likewise by achieving step-by-step milestones.

My aim in life is to grow to be a doctor in the future. I believe that medicine is one of the noblest professions to pursue in the world. I belong to a family of doctors and just like my mother, I aspire to be a neurosurgeon. The study of neurology and its impact on our behaviour, personality, and character is what intrigues me the most about the field. My curiosity towards the medical world and ambition to be a doctor is what motivates me to study harder and more diligently. The study of medicine is not easy but it opens up a whole new world of interaction. Learning about basic cell function to discovering the mechanisms of our brain is a fascinating journey. As a school student, I wish to excel in certain subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, maths, and psychology so that I can pursue my dream of becoming a doctor and a neurosurgeon. I hope to participate in different charities, health clinics, and services to gain the relevant skills one needs to be a doctor. I wish to work upon my social and communication skills because good communication is the backbone of every industry. I have the confidence and hope that one day I will achieve my aim in life to become a doctor.

“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instil a love of learning.” Teachers are the foundation of a good society, they not only facilitate learning but also inspire children to follow their dreams and goals in life. This is why my aim in life is to become a teacher. My teachers have had a tremendous impact on my life, they taught me to believe in myself and follow my path no matter what. I wish to inculcate this belief and nurture it. Becoming a teacher can help me spread this knowledge and belief of believing in one’s ability to achieve their goals, to be individualistic and creative. I believe that I can be a good teacher because of my experience, humility, and caring nature. I possess all the skills and qualities that a promising teacher should possess. I hope one day I get the opportunity to follow my passion for teaching and educating the world in the future.

My aim in life is to become an engineer. Belonging to a family of engineers I have aspired to become a mechanical engineer like my father. Efforts anyone puts in becoming an engineer will be the best investment ever. I will face many challenges at work but it will open an array of opportunities for me around the world. My curiosity towards the engineering world and ambition to be an engineer is what drives me to study harder and more diligently. I have started to prepare myself for this journey from the school level. Engineering is all about creating new products and bringing up changes in the existing ones for better functioning. I have started participating in various Olympiads, competitions to level up my knowledge and turn my passion into a career. I hope one day I get the opportunity to follow my passion for engineering and bring a change in the future.

Relevant Blogs

The aim of my life is a common essay topic for students. It focuses on their ambitions, goals, and what they aspire to be when they grow up. It is a great learning and language exercise for school students.

The best answer is to provide a representation of your ambitions and ideal life. Students can talk about why they wish to pursue a particular course or career and how it aligns with their future ambitions.

The aim of a student should be to learn and improve upon their existing knowledge systems.

The word aim means something that you intend to do or a purpose in life.

My life aims to become a pilot.

An essay should be at least 100 words long.

Make Your IELTS Scores Stand Out with Leverage Live

We hope this blog gives you an idea about how to write and present an essay on My Aim in Life that puts forth your opinions. For more information on such informative topics for your school, visit our essay writing and follow Leverage Edu .

' src=

Nikita Puri

Nikita is a creative writer and editor, who is always ready to learn new skills. She has great knowledge about study abroad universities, researching and writing blogs about them. Being a perfectionist, she has a habit of keeping her tasks complete on time before the OCD hits her. When Nikita is not busy working, you can find her eating while binge-watching The office. Also, she breathes music. She has done her bachelor's from Delhi University and her master's from Jamia Millia Islamia.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Hi Rubi, We are glad that you found our blog interesting and nice. Here are some more recommendations for you to read: https://leverageedu.com/blog/essay-on-internet/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/common-application-essay/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/essay-writing/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/essay-on-digital-india/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/mba-essay/

Happy that you found it informative!

Hi, Thanks for your valuable feedback!

Aim my life beautician

It is very helpful for me.

Very very nice 😊😊😊

browse success stories

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

write an essay on my future ambition

Resend OTP in

write an essay on my future ambition

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

write an essay on my future ambition

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

EssayBanyan.com – Collections of Essay for Students of all Class in English

Essay on My Ambition

All of us dream of attaining some of the other things in life. They can be called our goal of life. Ambition is the driving force that makes us work for achieving our goals. It is necessary to be ambitious in life so that there will be a motive behind our living. Without a motive, life is like a burden. Find here some essays of your interest to get in detail about your ambition.

Short and Long Essays on My Ambition in English

Essay on My Ambition for students of class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and class 12 in English in 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 500 words. Also find short My Ambition essay 10 lines.

My Ambition Essay 10 Lines (100 – 150 Words)

1) Ambition is a way to reach your dreams.

2) Everyone has some ambition in their life and I aim to become a doctor.

3) My aim is to help everyone by becoming a doctor.

4) A doctor is considered as the second form of God.

5) A successful doctor treats everyone the same and helps them with their problems.

6) To become a doctor in the future, I will work hard to crack the entrance exams.

7) I want to help all the needy by being a good doctor.

8) By becoming a doctor, I will serve all the poor without a fee.

9) I will work hard and put every effort to save every single life.

10) My ambition will help me to fulfill my dream of making my country healthier.

Short Essay on Holiday (200 – 250 Words)

Introduction

Ambitions are a necessary thought. Everybody has some or other ambitions in their life. Without ambition, life seems to be without any motive. Ambition gives us the energy to achieve our goal. There can be many obstacles and hindrances in getting our objectives to be fulfilled, but if we have a clear ambition then it is not difficult.

My Ambition in Life

From my childhood, I have the ambition to become a doctor and serve the whole nation and humanity. As I have seen the white dress of the doctors, at first I was fascinated by the same. But I also have a love for their noble work too. I wanted to provide free services to the people who were poor. Secondly, I have seen many of the patients dying because of not having money and facilities. I wanted to work for them. People consider doctors as God figures and this feeling gave me immense respect for this profession.

I never wanted to become a doctor full of greed. The scenario today has been changed a lot, many doctors have changed their aim from serving mankind to money-making. But still, there are doctors who can be a role model for others. From my childhood, I dreamt of becoming a doctor and my ambition did not change, it remained the same.

An ambition gives a proper perspective to our life and thinking. Thus we should have one or the other objectives in our life and also work harder to attain the same.

Essay 2 (400 Words) – My Ambition to Become a Social Worker

Everybody in this world has a desire to become something, attain some of the positions. Some dream of becoming doctors, engineers, scientists, writers, political leaders, and many more. The aspiration to become something is called to be having an ambition.

My Ambition to Become a Social Worker

During my childhood, I dreamt of becoming a doctor and serve my nation. It may sound funny that I am afraid of seeing blood and patients. So I dropped the aim to become a doctor. I have seen many small children begging and working in many of the shops and restaurants.

So I came to a decision to become a social worker. At least I can do something for their betterment. This will provide a sense of satisfaction to me after work. I also have a great love for animals and nature. As animals cannot speak up and express their pain and feelings, therefore I want to make people aware of the same and further teach them to look after them.

I just have the main motive behind becoming a social worker that I could do something for the people and nature. I have seen many of the children working to make their families survive, but they are unaware of the beneficial government schemes. Therefore it is a good deed to make people aware of the same. There are many children in society who are not properly guided and therefore are directed to the wrong path. So if I would work in this field, it will give me immense pleasure.

Working for Nature and Society

The work of a social worker is to work for a social cause. After becoming a social worker I would be able to make people understand the importance of education, by conducting surveys and awareness programme. According to me, we should also care for our surrounding in which we reside.

We should never allow anybody to do activities which may destroy the balance and nature. The animals, plants, and trees along with other organisms have the same right as we do have on this planet. But we could see that we are forgetting our responsibilities towards our nature. As a social worker, I would be working for the upliftment of society as well as nature too.

There must be an ambition in everyone’s life. Life without an aim is meaningless. The objective in life to do or become something drives us with positivity and courage to fulfill the same. One should not waste the precious gift of god i.e. life in vain, instead, make it worth.

Essay 3 (500 – 600 Words) – My Ambition in My Life

Life is a mixture of struggle and happiness. Ambitions make our life a sensible and beautiful one. Every one of us dreams to become something or the other in our lives. This is our ambition, which makes us work for the same and achieve it without getting disturbed by the hurdles of life. So we can say ambition is that driving factor which makes us successful in making our dreams comes true.

Significance of having Ambition in Our Life

  • It is their ambition only which makes people reach higher positions.
  • Having an ambition in our life helps in identifying the goal of our lives.
  • Ambition makes our life lively and energetic. If we have some motive then we continuously work in order to get it fulfilled.
  • Ambition inculcates in us the feeling to work hard to accomplish our dreams.
  • Ambition creates a situation for us to achieve our goal at any cost of hard work and firm determination.
  • Boosts the confidence level of an individual, and brings discipline in one’s life.

My Dream to Become a Teacher

The main motive of my life is to impart the knowledge I have gained, to others. As I believe in the fact that knowledge enhances as much it is distributed. I wanted to become a teacher as this will help me a lot in fulfilling my motive. Secondly, I found the teaching profession as one of the noblest professions.

Reasons for Opting to become a Teacher

It creates a lot of opportunities to learn about different aspects. According to my opinion, a teacher is a person in a child’s life, who is guiding the child about right and wrong after parents as first teachers. As a teacher I want students to consider me as their friend so that I may closely get to know about them.

Teachers are provided with an opportunity to get to know different types of children from various societies, thus making them more social. After I become a teacher, I will ensure that children are not only learning the subject matter but also moral values, ethics, and culture. The main thing is that I have seen an image of motivational speakers in me, so I think I will be better at motivating students to understand their aim and work for the same. At the same time, I am trying to inculcate as many features as one could in me, for becoming a successful teacher.

Uncertainty to Ambitions due to Pandemic Situation

There is a lot of uncertainty that has been created during the pandemic situation.

Many people have been fired from their dream job which is a great loss to their carrier and family. Many of the companies have not visited the colleges for placements, thus making students disappointed and concerned for their future. Even numbers of students were deprived of exams due to the critical situation. Therefore it can be stated that pandemic has raised the situation of uncertainty and depression among students and people.

But one must not lose hope and courage as life is filled up with hurdles, and we are the one who has to pave our way.

Risks of becoming Over-Ambitious

  • The over-ambitious attitude is a dangerous one. Every success we get is a step-wise process. Over-ambitious nature accounts for attaining everything in life, but at a faster rate which may prove bad.
  • The person may lose the pleasure of the family and attention too, in fulfilling his ambition only.
  • Life may also become short, as in a race to achieve a lot in less time one may pay less attention to the health requirements.

We all are not born with ambitions; instead, we have to inculcate it among us as we grow up. Ambitions are something that we desire to achieve in our lives, and thus we have to work sincerely with a lot of efforts to accomplish our goals.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans . The strong desire to achieve something in life is called ambition.

Ans . Hard work and dedication can help to turn our ambition into reality.

Ans . It is important to have ambition in life because it gives us direction to achieve our goals.

Ans . The people who lack ambition in their life are called unambitious people.

Ans . Life is meaningless and boring without any ambition in life.

Also read these essays :

Essay on Rainy Season

Related Posts

Essay on digital india, cashless india essay, essay on child is father of the man, essay on causes, effects and prevention of corona virus, essay on dr. sarvepalli radhakrishnan, durga puja essay, essay on summer vacation, essay on my plans for summer vacation, essay on holiday, leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • School Guide
  • English Grammar Free Course
  • English Grammar Tutorial
  • Parts of Speech
  • Figure of Speech
  • Tenses Chart
  • Essay Writing
  • Email Writing
  • NCERT English Solutions
  • English Difference Between
  • SSC CGL English Syllabus
  • SBI PO English Syllabus
  • SBI Clerk English Syllabus
  • IBPS PO English Syllabus
  • IBPS CLERK English Syllabus

My Aim in Life Essay For Students: 100, 200 & 500 Words Essay

Writing an essay is equal to exploring your inner self. Teachers have a very straightforward justification for requesting you to write an essay. Writing an essay makes it simple for you to communicate yourself more rationally.

The lecturers are attempting to assist you in developing your writing abilities, vocabulary, and distinctive writing style by giving you essay assignments. Essays are a required component of many academic and scholastic tests, including the UPSC and SAT. It is also an essential evaluation component of English proficiency exams, such as the TOEFL, Duolingo, and IELTS.

Table of Content

Essay on My Aim in Life in 100 words

Essay on my aim in life in 200 words, essay on my aim in life in 500 words, what is the aim, importance of aim in life, how to find your aim, types of aim, how to choose the right aim of life, how to achieve the aim in life.

My aim in life is to become a doctor. I want to serve humanity by providing medical care to those in need. Healing the sick and alleviating their suffering is my passion. I aspire to make a positive impact on society and contribute to the well-being of others. Becoming a doctor requires dedication, hard work, and compassion, qualities that I am committed to cultivating. I believe that pursuing this noble profession will not only fulfill my personal aspirations but also allow me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

My aim in life is to become a successful entrepreneur. I envision myself creating innovative solutions to address societal challenges and make a positive impact on the world. As an entrepreneur, I aspire to build a business that not only generates profits but also contributes to the greater good. I am passionate about entrepreneurship because it allows me to exercise creativity, take risks, and pursue my vision for a better future. I am committed to acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the business world, including leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability. By pursuing my aim of becoming an entrepreneur, I hope to leave a lasting legacy and inspire others to pursue their dreams.

My aim in life is to become a teacher. I believe that education is the key to unlocking opportunities and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. As a teacher, I aspire to inspire and motivate students to excel academically and personally. I want to create a nurturing and supportive learning environment where students feel valued and encouraged to explore their interests and passions. By instilling a love for learning and fostering critical thinking skills, I hope to prepare students for success in life and contribute to building a brighter future for society. Becoming a teacher requires patience, empathy, and dedication, qualities that I am committed to cultivating. I am passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others and believe that education is the most powerful tool for driving social change. Through my work as a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to become compassionate, responsible, and engaged members of society.

An aim in life is like a guiding star that directs our efforts and shapes our journey towards success and fulfillment. It is the beacon that illuminates our path, providing clarity and purpose to our endeavors.

Having a clear aim in life is crucial for personal development and growth. It gives us a sense of direction, motivating us to strive harder and overcome obstacles. An aim provides focus, helps in prioritizing tasks, and ensures that our efforts are aligned with our aspirations. Without a defined aim, we may wander aimlessly, lacking purpose and satisfaction in life.

Discovering one’s aim in life is a process of self-reflection and exploration. It involves identifying our passions, interests, and values, as well as understanding our strengths and weaknesses. Engaging in activities that resonate with us and seeking guidance from mentors can also help in clarifying our aim.

Primary Aim in life

Our primary aim in life is the overarching goal that defines our purpose and drives our actions. It encompasses our long-term aspirations and reflects what we ultimately strive to achieve. Whether it’s pursuing a career, making a difference in society, or achieving personal fulfillment, our primary aim serves as the cornerstone of our life’s journey.

Aims can vary greatly from person to person, depending on individual values, aspirations, and circumstances. They can be categorized into various types such as career goals, educational aspirations, personal development objectives, and societal contributions. Each type of aim contributes to different aspects of our lives, shaping our overall growth and fulfillment.

Choosing the right aim in life requires careful consideration and introspection. It involves aligning our aspirations with our talents, passions, and values, ensuring that our aim is both meaningful and achievable. Assessing our strengths and weaknesses, seeking advice from mentors, and exploring different options can help in making an informed decision about our life’s aim.

Achieving our aim in life requires dedication, perseverance, and resilience. It involves setting clear goals, formulating action plans, and consistently working towards them. Staying focused, overcoming setbacks, and adapting to challenges are essential in the pursuit of our aim. Seeking support from mentors, acquiring relevant skills, and remaining adaptable to change can also facilitate our journey towards achieving our aim.

In conclusion, having a clear aim in life is essential for personal fulfillment, growth, and success. It provides direction, purpose, and motivation, guiding us through life’s journey and helping us realize our full potential. By identifying our aim, setting goals, and striving towards them with determination, we can chart a path towards a meaningful and fulfilling life. Let us embrace the power of aim-setting and embark on a journey towards realizing our dreams and aspirations.

Similar Reads: 500+Words Essay on My Hobby in English Essay on My House in English: Check 300, 500 & 800 Words Essay My Village Essay in English For Students

My Aim In Life Essay- FAQs

What is the best answer for aim in life.

The best answer for aim in life varies for each individual but generally involves a combination of personal passion, societal contribution, and self-fulfillment. It should reflect one’s aspirations, values, and long-term goals, guiding their actions and decisions towards a purposeful and meaningful life.

How do I write an essay about my aim in life?

To write an essay about your aim in life, start by reflecting on your passions, interests, and long-term goals. Define your aim clearly and concisely, explaining why it is important to you and how you plan to achieve it. Organize your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing your aim and its significance, and a conclusion summarizing your main points.

What is the biggest aim in life?

The biggest aim in life is subjective and varies from person to person. It could be achieving personal fulfillment, making a positive impact on society, or leaving a lasting legacy. Ultimately, the biggest aim in life is one that brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment, guiding individuals towards their highest aspirations and deepest desires.

Why is aim important in life?

Aim is important in life because it provides direction, motivation, and purpose. It gives individuals a sense of clarity about their goals and aspirations, guiding their actions and decisions towards achieving them. Aim also helps in prioritizing tasks, staying focused, and overcoming obstacles, leading to personal growth and fulfillment. Without a clear aim, individuals may feel lost or directionless, lacking motivation and meaning in their lives.

What is full form of AIM?

The full form of AIM varies depending on the context. In the context of messaging and communication technology, AIM stands for AOL Instant Messenger, a popular instant messaging service. However, in the broader sense, AIM can stand for “Ambition, Inspiration, Motivation,” reflecting key elements of goal-setting and personal development.

Please Login to comment...

Similar reads.

  • English Blogs
  • School English

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

 alt=

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

Essay on My Ambition of Life ( 100, 200 & 500 Words )

' src=

By Vijay Gupta

Updated on: May 16, 2022

Essay on my ambition of Life

Today, in this article, I’m going to write an essay on my ambition of life. That means if you’re seeking an essay on my ambition of life, you’ve come to the right place.

Here, I’ve written this essay in 100, 200 and 500 words. Now, you can choose any of them as per your suitability.

Without wasting your valuable time, let’s start writing an essay on my ambition of life.

See also, save water save life essay .

Table of Contents

Essay on My Ambition of Life 500 Words –

1. introduction –.

It’s the ambition of life that takes people to the top. If a person has no ambition in life, perhaps he/she cannot prove himself/herself as the best in front of the world.

People make different plans to fulfill their ambitions.

Ambitions not only enhance the concentration of the people but also clear their path. There can be different types of ambitions in life such as to become a doctor, to become an engineer, to become a scientist or many others that people keep in their minds.

Those who work hard and focus easily achieve their ambitions but those who only think but don’t focus are deprived of accomplishing them.

Therefore, ambitions shouldn’t be left thinking, but they should be followed firmly.

Know, how to write an essay on newspaper ?

2. My ambition of life –

As everyone has an ambition in life, in the same way, I also have an ambition in life and my ambition is to become a software engineer.

I have been very fond of computers from the beginning. I’ve learnt many things from computers. That’s why I feel that I can do something better in this field.

Although my parents inspire me a lot for sports, but I’m not so much interested in sports as in computers.

Ever since I told my parents about my ambition to become a software engineer, they started supporting me.

See also, essay on Swachh Bharat Abhiyan .

3. Why do I want to become a software engineer –

When I was in class eight, I loved playing games on my computer. There was a game the name of which was GTA Vice City that I used to play very much.

One day, when I was playing GTA Vice City, a question came to my mind that, how games are made? and why do people make them?

When I researched about it, I came to know that software engineers make games and such types of other applications. The reason for making them is to earn money by advertising.

I was surprised by knowing this.

That’s why the desire to become a software engineer arose in me.

4. How will I fulfill my ambition –

When I was in class 10th, I started collecting information to fulfill my ambition. Now I’m in class 12th.

I’ll first pass the best competitive exam related to engineering so that I can get a good government engineering college to pursue B.Tech.

As I know that B.Tech is one of the best ways to become a software engineer. After completing four years of this course in Computer Science, I will pursue M.Tech. Then, I’ll apply to big software companies.

At the same time, I will also develop my own software and start a new start-up.

5. Conclusion –

Ambitions can be in anyone’s life. All you have to do is follow them sincerely. Everyone must have an ambition in his life. It’s so because you can’t do better without having any ambition.

Neither you will be successful nor will you be able to lead an ideal life.

That’s why you should set the goal of your life from a very early age so that you can do the right thing at the right time.

Additionally, when you have life ambitions, you are not confused about your career either.

My Ambition in Life Essay 100 Words –

My ambition in life is to become a doctor. Actually, I’ve many reasons to become a doctor. Today’s doctors have become so selfish that they focus only on money. They rarely pay attention to mankind.

I want to become a doctor who works with the spirit of helping people and not with the spirit of extorting money by doing expensive treatments.

My main aim will be to ease all kinds of pain and stress of people so that they can give me blessings.

Also, I wish to open my own hospital so that I can provide maximum facilities and the best treatments to people at minimum cost.

I’ll provide all types of treatments in my hospital. When I see the progress, I’ll open some branches all over the country.

My Ambition in Life Essay 200 Words –

Ever since I’ve grown up a bit, I love to read about famous and wealthy people. Most of the books I’ve read are related to businessmen. That’s why my ambition in life is to become a successful businessman.

The main aim of becoming a businessman is that I want to earn both money and fame so that people know me as a successful businessman like others.

Whenever I read about some successful businessmen, I get the energy to become a businessman. I’m the most influenced by Mukesh Ambani, Bhavish Agarwal and Ghanshyam Das Birla.

My father is a cloth merchant who is limited to his field but I want to take my father’s business to a higher level.

I want to do business in all types of clothing related to people of all ages.

As soon as I complete my studies, I’ll take care of my father’s business and follow the same strategies that I’ve learnt from other successful businessmen.

Apart from this, if I get success in this work, I’ll try my best to run it abroad with full dedication.

Final words –

Ultimately, I hope that the article must have fulfilled your needs. Now, you won’t have any type of problem while writing an essay on my ambition of life.

If you really liked this article, please share it with those who need it.

' src=

Vijay Gupta

Hello everyone, My name is Vijay Gupta and I belong to a very small town that is situated in district Hardoi, which is in Uttar Pradesh. 1. Education – I’ve completed my primary education from a private school that is situated in my hometown and upper primary, matric and higher secondary education have been completed from a government college. Well, I was an average student till class 5th, but I accelerated my preference towards studies from class six. Consequently, I passed out many classes with good positions. Even I passed out 12th with good marks ( 405/500 ) and topped my college. Due to getting good marks, I got a cheque of 500 rupees and was rewarded by the Principal of my college. After completing my 12th, I prepared twice for IIT ( Indian Institute of Technology ) from Aakash institute, but unfortunately, I failed to get selected into the best IIT colleges. But during the preparation, I was being graduated from CSJMU Kanpur. I completed my graduation in 2016 and now I’m pursuing an educational degree ( B.Ed. ). 2. Profession – Although I love teaching, but I also do blogging. Both are my favorite jobs.

Related Post

Latest post.

write an essay on my future ambition

bsf ro rm syllabus Pdf 2024

write an essay on my future ambition

Easy Access to SRKR Syllabus PDF

write an essay on my future ambition

labour inspector syllabus pdf download

write an essay on my future ambition

Punjabi University Syllabus Pdf

write an essay on my future ambition

ctet syllabus 2023-24 pdf download

write an essay on my future ambition

ssc gd syllabus 2023-2024 in hindi pdf download

write an essay on my future ambition

Nursery Class Syllabus PDF Download 

write an essay on my future ambition

ktu syllabus Pdf 2023-2024

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

A Plus Topper

Improve your Grades

A Doctor Essay | Essay on A Doctor for Students and Children in English

February 7, 2024 by Prasanna

A Doctor Essay  – Given below is a Long and Short Essay on A Doctor for aspirants of competitive exams, kids and students belonging to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. A Doctor essay 100, 150, 200, 250 words in English helps the students with their class assignments, comprehension tasks, and even for competitive examinations.

You can also find more Essay Writing articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long Essay On A Doctor 500 words for kids and students in English

This proverb still holds true to the hilt. One may have all the comforts and luxuries of life but it may all seem purposeless if one does not have sound health to enjoy them. One must be healthy physically and mentally. We undergo many health problems time and again. We need to cure these health problems at the earliest to restore back to health; and only a doctor can help us to restore back to health. Doctor, who cures ailing and distress with utmost devotion, care and love, is a saviour and God to millions. We need doctor’s help in health problems like cold, cough, fever, flue, depression, etc. or any natural deformities like bad positioning of teeth, deafness, dumbness, blindness, ill-shaped limb, etc. or in case of accidents.

“Health is wealth”

A doctor is a healer who extends his true services to all his patients regardless of any bias, selfishness or apprehension about himself catching up the infections. To a doctor, his patients are very important and treating and curing them is always his priority. There are various branches of medicine like Allopathy, Homeopathy, Unani, Ayurvedic. There are various specialisations of doctors, in addition to general physician, like cardiologist, dentist, surgeon, psychatrist, gyneocologist, neurologist, orthologist, etc.

I am prone to allergies, so I need help of a doctor very often. Though I am afraid of injections and bitter medicines but I never delay my visit to doctor because I know only my doctor can help me restore back to good health at the earliest.

Dr. Edward Smith, a general physician, is our family doctor. He is associated with my family since last 20 years even when I was not born. He is a man in his late 50’s and looks smart in his white lab coat and always wears a stethoscope and pleasing smile. I call him ‘Uncle doc’ and take his advice for any major dietary change. Dr. Smith is a very dedicated man, he attends to his patients at his clinic, at his residence and in the evening renders his services for free to a charitable hospital. He never declines to attend to emergency needs of any patients even during his rest hours or odd hours. He is co-operative enough to personally visit our house in case of some grave emergency. He is a very jovial person who often jokes around with his patients to keep them cheerful even when they are in grave pain or distress.

Dr. Smith always wants his patient to be hale and hearty and so he often tells them in detail about the precautions, causes and cures of various diseases and prescribes them the best medicine available.

Doctor is an important part of the society because as long as we are alive we will have minor or major health problems and we need a doctor to cure them and let health and happiness prevail. A doctor is a saviour for society.

A Doctor Essay

FAQs on A Doctor

Q1. What is the ambition of your life?

Ans: Everybody has an ambition in his life to do something in better and different manner. Ambition mean a strong desire to do or achieve something in the life. Ambition gives us aims, objects, goals and targets of life. It gives us a sense of direction and motivation towards our goals in the life.

Q2. What is the aim of a doctor?

Ans: Everyone has an aim in life, Aim or Ambition is what we want to be in future and chose a career after studies. My aim in life is to become a doctor, the life of a doctor is a noble life. The doctor is a saver of life and they can help the peoples who need them when they feel sick.

Q3. How do you achieve your goals as a doctor?

  • Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree. A bachelor’s degree is required to get into medical school. …
  • Step 2: Take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) …
  • Step 3: Earn a Medical Degree. …
  • Step 4: Complete a Residency Program. …
  • Step 5: Obtain Licensure. …
  • Step 6: Get Certified to Advance Career.

Q4. What is the aim of the life?

Ans: Ambition drives them to advance and accomplish their goals. Well-aimed and supported by values, ambition reflects a healthy self-esteem and higher power of abstraction and visualization of the future. Ambitious people have a gleam in their eyes as they approach their goals.

  • Picture Dictionary
  • English Speech
  • English Slogans
  • English Letter Writing
  • English Essay Writing
  • English Textbook Answers
  • Types of Certificates
  • ICSE Solutions
  • Selina ICSE Solutions
  • ML Aggarwal Solutions
  • HSSLive Plus One
  • HSSLive Plus Two
  • Kerala SSLC
  • Distance Education
  • Entertainment
  • Environment
  • Information Science and Technology
  • Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Profession Doctor

My Future Goals as a Doctor

Table of contents, introduction, passion for healing and impact, building trust, contribution to the development of medicine, embracing diversity and global health, overcoming problems.

*minimum deadline

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below

writer logo

  • Police Officer
  • Administration

Related Essays

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Logo

Essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look


100 Words Essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher

Introduction.

Life is about striving. Everyone has an ambition to achieve something in life. My life’s ambition is to become a teacher.

Reason for Choosing Teaching

The reason I want to become a teacher is because I love the idea of making a difference in a child’s life. Teachers shape the future of the nation by nurturing young minds.

Role of a Teacher

Teachers not only impart academic knowledge but also help in moral and ethical development. They are the guiding light in a student’s life.

In conclusion, my ambition to become a teacher is driven by my desire to contribute to society.

250 Words Essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher

The power of education.

Education is a tool that can change the world, and teachers are the catalysts. They are the ones who kindle the flame of curiosity, instilling a thirst for knowledge in young minds. As a teacher, I aspire to inspire students to explore the world around them, to question, and to learn.

The Role of a Teacher

A teacher is not just an instructor, but a mentor, a guide, and a friend. They help students to navigate the complexities of life, to understand the world, and to find their place in it. I wish to be that beacon of light for my students, guiding them towards knowledge and wisdom.

Contribution to Society

By becoming a teacher, I aim to contribute to society by nurturing the future generation. I believe that the values, ethics, and knowledge that I impart to my students will help them to become responsible and compassionate citizens.

In conclusion, my ambition to become a teacher stems from a deep-rooted passion for education and a desire to make a difference. I am determined to work tirelessly towards this goal, knowing that the fruits of my labor will be seen in the success of my students.

500 Words Essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher

From a young age, I have always been drawn to the idea of shaping minds and influencing the future through education. This lifelong aspiration has culminated in my ambition to become a teacher, a beacon of knowledge and a guide for the young learners. The role of a teacher extends beyond imparting academic knowledge; it involves molding character, instilling values, and inspiring a lifelong love for learning.

The Joy of Teaching

Teaching is not just a profession; it is a passion, a calling. The joy of teaching lies in the ability to make a difference, to stimulate young minds, and to see students grow and evolve. There is a profound satisfaction in witnessing the transformation of a student from a passive listener to an active learner, from a follower to a leader. The joy of teaching also lies in the continuous learning that it entails. As a teacher, one is constantly learning, evolving, and growing along with the students.

My Motivation

My motivation to become a teacher stems from my belief in the transformative power of education. Education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is about holistic development, about empowering individuals to realize their potential and contribute positively to society. I believe that as a teacher, I can play a pivotal role in this transformative journey. I am inspired by the idea of shaping young minds, of sparking curiosity and creativity, and of instilling a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

My Vision as a Teacher

In conclusion, my ambition to become a teacher is driven by my passion for education, my belief in its transformative power, and my desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students. I am excited about the opportunity to shape minds, inspire dreams, and contribute to the creation of a more enlightened and compassionate society. As a teacher, I look forward to being a part of the journey of discovery, exploration, and growth that education entails.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

write an essay on my future ambition

More From Forbes

101 famous authors and greatest writers of all time.

  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to Twitter
  • Share to Linkedin

William Shakespeare holding a pen.

Illustration of William Shakespeare.

Writers have always had the ability to shift paradigms, define eras and impact a broader society with their craft. From the philosophical musings of Plato, particularly those featuring Socrates’ thoughtful dialogues, to the classic wisdom of Aesop, who influenced fables and storytelling for generations, the art of writing has the unique power to outlive time and space, impacting readers across generations and geographies. Thanks to the masterminds putting ink to paper to tell some of the most powerful stories of human time, we are able to see the world with new eyes and find perspective and solace in our shared human experiences. In this list, I have compiled the works of the 101 greatest authors and writers of all time, celebrating their unique contributions to literature and their mastery of the written word. This list was compiled with the assistance of several librarians at Herrick Library in Holland, Michigan. A fun fact is that Holland, Michigan, partly inspired Lyman Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz .

Top Authors

The authors on this list represent a variety of time periods, capturing the evolution of storytelling and its form, from ancient to modern times. This list does not just cover fictional characters and experiences; it points to the insight of these wordsmiths, whose ideas have traveled through time and continue to challenge, disrupt and reform. Although this list spans millennia of written history, including ancient figures like Homer, classical authors like Virgil and Renaissance luminaries like William Shakespeare, modern fan-favorites like J.K. Rowling and Stephen King also made the list. Whether you are a fan of poetry, mystery, horror, romantic fiction, memoirs or autobiographies, there is a writer for every type of reader on this list of the 101 greatest authors of all time.

101. John Grisham (1955- )

John Grisham in Torino, Italy, May 2007.

American writer John Grisham is an Arkansas-born author best known for transposing his legal knowledge into written form. Before his writing career took off, Grisham practiced law for nearly a decade, specializing in criminal defense and personal injury litigation, which gave him real-life experiences that would later inform the legal axioms in his written work. His pivot from a small-town lawyer to one of the world’s most popular novelists is as fascinating as the plots of his legal thrillers, but did not come without persistence. Grisham’s first novel, A Time to Kill was inspired by a real case he witnessed in a Mississippi courtroom and it would become a moment that would be a turning point in his career. The novel examined the racial tensions and justice in the American South and also analyzed themes of revenge, morality and the complex nature of the justice system. Although A Time to Kill was rejected by 28 publishers, Grisham persisted in writing and that grit paid off, leading to a well-respected career that has redefined the genre of legal fiction. Among Grisham’s most influential works are The Firm; The Pelican Brief, a political-legal thriller involving the murders of two Supreme Court justices; and The Runaway Jury . Grisham’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Critics should find meaningful work.” ― John Grisham

100. Danielle Steel (1947- )

Ufc 303 results: ufc rising star scores amazing 19-second ko, black people’s responses to trump’s notion of ‘black jobs’, apple’s vision pro is amazing but nobody wants one.

Author Danielle Steel poses for a portrait in 1997 in Los Angeles.

Born in 1947 in New York City, Danielle Steel grew up between France and the United States, where she began writing short stories and poetry as a young girl. Although Steel attended New York University for Literature and Design, she began her writing career in the 1970s, and published her first novel, Going Home , in 1973. Shortly after, her novels quickly gained massive public interest. With over 800 million copies of her books sold, Steel’s writing is characterized by its romantic depth, vivid characterizations and complicated family relationships. Her most acclaimed novels like The Gift , Kaleidoscope and Sisters, often include themes of romance, passion, loss, resilience and redemption. Steel is one of the best-selling authors of all time and in 1989, she earned a Guinness World Record for having a book on The New York Times bestsellers list for 381 consecutive weeks. Despite her commercial success, many readers don’t know that Steel still writes with a manual typewriter, a practice she finds creatively fulfilling and grounding. Although her work primarily consists of novels, she has also written poetry and children’s books. Her books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote : “No man can take your freedom from you. They can limit your mobility, but that's about all they can do.” ― Danielle Steel .

99. Sidney Sheldon (1917-2007)

Writer Sidney Sheldon poses for a photograph during a book signing for "The Sky Is Falling" at a ... [+] Barnes & Noble bookstore.

Sidney Sheldon was born in Chicago, but began his career in Hollywood, where he initially worked on scripts for B-movies and later moved on to Broadway musicals. Although Sheldon achieved massive success in Hollywood, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer in 1947​, the script would become just one of many success stories for Sheldon. He also attained success with numerous other successful films and television shows including The Patty Duke Show , I Dream of Jeannie and Hart to Hart . After a successful stint in show business, Sheldon started writing books in the 1960s and his first novel, The Naked Face , was published in 1970 and earned him a nomination for the prestigious Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best First Novel. His novels, often featuring ambitious female protagonists, are known for their suspenseful and dramatic storylines. Some of his most celebrated written works include The Other Side of Midnight , Master of the Game and If Tomorrow Comes . Sheldon is also the only writer to have won an Oscar, a Tony, and an Edgar in his lifetime. His works are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “Life is like a novel. It's filled with suspense. You have no idea what is going to happen until you turn the page.”― Sidney Sheldon .

98. Mary Augusta Ward (1851-1920)

Mrs Humphrey Ward (1851 - 1920) born Mary Augusta Arnold.

Mary Augusta Ward was a prominent British novelist and social activist whose pen name was Mrs. Humphry Ward. Her novel Robert Elsmere opened up a lot of public discussion about Christianity in Victorian society and all of its nuances. Ward was known for her deep reflection and engagement with contemporary social issues and even earned a nod of approval from Leo Toltsoy, who praised Ward for being the greatest English novelist of her time. Despite her success as a writer, Ward also advocated for education reform and founded the Passmore Edwards Settlement, a center that was founded to enrich the lives of working-class adults on evenings and weekends and to offer after-school recreation and instruction to poor children while their parents were still at work. Ward was also well-known for her stance against the Women's Suffrage Movement because she was concerned that emancipation would dilute the moral influence of women. This led her to establish the Anti-Suffrage League in 1908. The Australia-born novelist became a best-selling author and also achieved success with other books like D avid Grieve , Sir George Tressady and Helbeck of Bannisdale . Her works are available at The Kelmscott Book Shop .

Famous Quote: “Truth has never been, can never be, contained in any one creed or system.” — Mary Augusta Ward .

97. Dr. Seuss (1904-1991)

Children's book author/illustrator Theodor Seuss Geisel poses with models of some of the characters ... [+] he has created.

Theodor Seuss Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, was a La Jolla, California-born children’s author, humorist, political cartoonist and illustrator whose work has become the hallmark of children’s books. For years, his comical and highly imaginative books have created an opportunity for children to maintain their child-like wonder, while ushering an opportunity for them to experience real-life situations. Books like Oh,The Places You’ll Go!, The Cat in the Hat , Green Eggs and Ham and How the Grinch Stole Christma s! have become staples of children’s literature, establishing a permanence and formula that is impossible to duplicate. Dr. Seuss’s playful language and memorable characters have had a lasting impact on young readers and innovative use of alliteration, rhyme and rhythm has not only entertained children but also helped them develop early literacy skills. Dr. Seuss’s books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living.”― Dr. Seuss .

96. Laura Ingalls Wilder (1867-1957)

Laura Ingalls Wilder autographing a book.

Laura Ingalls Wilder, born in Pepin, Wisconsin, was an American author best known for her Little House series of children’s books. These semi-autobiographical novels loosely mirrored her childhood growing up in a pioneer family, and offered a lucid portrayal of life on the American frontier in the late 19th century. At 15 years old, Wilder began to teach, and that ushered her into writing and editing years later. She started out writing for McCall’s Magazine and Country Gentleman and she later served as the poultry editor for the St. Louis Star before becoming a home editor for the Missouri Ruralist . In her fictional writing, Wilder’s simple, yet detailed and engaging storytelling has compelled readers for years, providing an intimate look at the simplicity, hardships and joys of pioneer life. Her timeless stories of adventure, family, and perseverance continue to inspire fans of her work and remind them of the values of courage, honesty and simplicity. Wilder also wrote essays, short stories, letters and poetry. Her works are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.” — Laura Ingalls Wilder .

95. John Bunyan (1628-1688)

Portrait of English preacher and writer John Bunyan.

John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress is one of the most important works in religious English literature. The Bedfordshire, England-born author, who would go on to become one of the most well-known religious writers of all time had his own fair share of suffering, much of which informed his outlook on faith and religion. Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress was written while he was imprisoned for preaching without a license. For centuries, the famous Puritan-themed book has inspired readers with its acute spiritual insight and vivid storytelling. In fact, Bunyan’s accessible and striking storytelling has ensured the book’s place as a classic, offering moral and spiritual guidance across generations. At one point The Pilgrim’s Progress was considered the second most influential religious book after the Bible . Apart from The Pilgrim’s Progress , Bunyan also wrote his spiritual autobiography, Grace Abounding while he was imprisoned for 12 years. The account detailed his personal journey of faith, struggles with doubt, and a spiritual triumph which provided some insight into his personal life. Bunyan’s works are available at Moody Publishers .

Famous Quote: “In prayer it is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart. ”― John Bunyan .

94. Lewis Carroll (Charles Lutwidge Dodgson) (1832-1898)

British mathematician, author and photographer Charles Lutwidge Dogson (1832 - 1898), who wrote ... [+] several books under the pseudonym of Lewis Carroll.

Lewis Carroll, author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland , was also a mathematician and logician, whose obsession with logic influenced his career. Carroll’s interest in logic and wordplay had a major impact in his formulaic approach to writing, making his works rich in both imaginative and intellectual content. Born in Chesire, England, the skilled mathematician had an innate skill when it came to weaving complicated mind puzzles and otherworldly narrative elements together to create fascinating stories, and this is primarily what makes Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland a captivating and often mind-bending read. Apart from writing novels, Carroll was also a poet and photographer, whose other notable works include Jabberwocky and The Hunting of the Snark . Carroll’s timeless appeal can be attributed to his ability to reconcile the interplay between reality and fantasy, coupled with logic and nonsense. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Who in the world am I? Ah, that's the great puzzle.”― Lewis Carroll .

93. Saint Mark the Evangelist (A.D. 12-A.D. 68)

Saint Mark the Evangelist, circa 1624-1625.

The Evangelist Mark was the author of The Gospel of Mark, the second book of the New Testament. His account is often considered to be the earliest and pithiest account of Jesus life and teachings. Mark, who was born in Cyrene of the Roman Empire, never met Jesus, but his concise and poignant storytelling about Christ has had a lasting impact on Christian theology for centuries. Written with a sense of immediacy and urgency, the Gospel of Mark captures the core of Jesus’ ministry, highlighting his miracles, parables, and the weighty sense of mission that defined his journey on earth. Mark’s writing style, while simple and unadorned, is poignant and relatable, making it accessible to a broad audience. The gospel’s influence has extended beyond religious circles and influenced Western literature, art and broader socio-cultural perceptions and interpretations of who Jesus was. His work is available at Bible Gateway .

Famous Quote : “Do not become a disciple of one who praises himself, in case you learn pride instead of humility.” — Saint Mark the Evangelist .

92. Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley (1797-1851)

Portrait of Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley.

Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, born in London, England, is best known for her seminal book Frankenstein, which shattered literary boundaries and blurred the lines between gothic storytelling and science fiction. Shelley completed her first draft of Frankenstein in 1816 at only 18 years old, but it was published anonymously two years later, when she was 20. The novel is considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction because it explores creation, ambition and the ethical limits of scientific inquiry. Shelley’s imaginative vision and profound questions about the ethical roles that humans play in the world are ones that have continued to be explored by new and up-and-coming writers and thinkers. Her ability to integrate Gothic horror with philosophical questioning also made her an unforgettable figure. Her other notable work is The Modern Prometheus and her books are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful.” — Mary Shelley .

91. Jonathan Swift (1667-1745)

Jonathan Swift, Anglo-Irish clergyman, satirist and poet.

Dublin-born Jonathan Swift is widely regarded as one of the greatest satirists in the English language. His works, which include the critically acclaimed Gulliver's Travels and A Modest Proposal , were the highlights of his sharp wit, keen intellect and understanding of human nature and psychology. Swift’s writing conveyed a brilliant ability to combine biting satire with insightful social commentary to create meaningful stories that would remain classic historical relics long after his death in 1745. Swift was also involved in the political and social issues of his time. As a cleric, he held several leadership positions in the Church of Ireland, including his position as Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin. His political pamphlets and essays, such as The Drapier’s Letters , played a crucial role in the Irish resistance to English economic policies. Swift’s works were not limited to prose; he was also an accomplished poet and essayist whose poems like A Description of a City Shower , proved his ability to merge satire with vivid imagery. Swift also wrote essays, and some of his work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “It is useless to attempt to reason a man out of a thing he was never reasoned into.” ― Jonathan Swift .

90. Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875)

Still portrait of Hans Christian Andersen.

Born in Odense, Denmark, Hans Christian Andersen rose from a poor background to become one of the most recognized authors of all time, whose fairy tales have enchanted children and adults alike for generations. Although he struggled early in his career, his work eventually gained recognition for its imaginative and whimsical storytelling. Andersen created memorable stories by using simplicity and charm to teach moral lessons and his fairy tales often explored themes of resilience, kindness and the triumph of good. Some of his most iconic creations include The Little Mermaid , The Ugly Duckling , The Emperor’s New Clothes and Thumbelina . Some say that glimpses of Andersen’s childhood could be found in most of his written work, and for centuries, his immortal stories have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various forms, including ballets, plays and films. Readers of all ages, have found his work magnetic, stretching his legacy as a master storyteller from one generation of readers, old and young, to the next. Andersen’s works can be purchased from Penguin Random House.

Famous quote: “But a mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more.”― Hans Christian Andersen .

89. Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Portrait of American poet and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, born in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American essayist, lecturer, philosopher, abolitionist and poet who was one of the most influential American thinkers of the 19th century. Emerson who was fondly called by his middle name, Waldo, was a visionary essayist, lecturer, philosopher, poet and ardent abolitionist whose intellectual leadership inspired the Transcendentalist movement and advocated for the inherent goodness of people and nature. This advocacy was so powerful that it flowed into his written work and made him stand out as a great writer, public speaker and advocate. Besides writing, Emerson used his skills as a public speaker to condemn slavery and advocate for civil right and liberty. Some of his best written works include Self-Reliance , The Over-Soul , Circles and Nature . Some of his works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson .

88. Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

Writer Henry David Thoreau poses for a portrait in circa 1860.

Henry David Thoreau, born in Concord, Massachusetts, was an American naturalist, essayist, poet and philosopher whose works have continued to be studied in schools and institutions of higher education for their emphasis on American and environmental thought. Like his close friend Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thoreau also became a central figure in the Transcendentalist movement, and his writings began to reflect his respect for nature, his advocacy for simple living, and his commitment to social reform and civil liberty. Thoreau's commitment to his principles was demonstrated when he was jailed for refusing to pay a poll tax, which he believed supported slavery and the Mexican-American War. This act of civil disobedience inspired his famous essay Civil Disobedience . In Civil Disobedience , originally titled Resistance to Civil Government , Thoreau argues for the importance of individual conscience and the moral necessity to resist unjust laws and government actions. His essay has influenced many notable figures and movements advocating for social justice and nonviolent resistance. Thoreau’s best works include Walden, a series of 18 essays, Civil Disobedience and Walking. Some of his work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth.”— Henry David Thoreau .

87. Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888)

Portrait of Louisa May Alcott.

Because Louisa May Alcott’s father, Bronson Alcott, was a Transcendentalist, she grew up in the company of well-known transcendentalists like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry Thoreau, all of whom also happened to be excellent writers. In fact, Thoreau inspired quite a bit of Alcott’s work, and was one of the driving forces behind her desire to write. Although Alcott was born in Germantown, Pennsylvania, she lived most of her life in Massachusetts, and that location would inspire her work. Among some of her notable books are Little Women, which was a self-directed book about her experiences growing up with her sisters and their childhood memories. Other notable books from Alcott include Good Wives and Little Men. An avid writer , Alcott also thrived in the short story form, and her success as an author afforded her the opportunity to also become a Transcendentalist and advocate for women’s rights. Her works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott .

86. J.D. Salinger (1919-2010)

J.D. Salinger

J.D. Salinger was born in New York City, so he knew a thing or two about good storytelling. His critically-acclaimed novel The Catcher in the Rye is considered the magnum opus of his career, and is a detailed and sincere account that explores the angst and alienation that can often come with adolescence. Before becoming a famous wrier, Salinger briefly attended New York University and Columbia University, and he served in World War II, where he participated in the D-Day invasion and witnessed the liberation of concentration camps. These experiences influenced his writing, adding depth to his portrayal of human emotions and relationships and during his time serving, Salinger wrote more than 20 short stories, which helped him to segue into full-time writing. His short stories published in magazines like The New Yorker and introduced readers to his tone. Throughout his years as an author , Salinger’s signature colloquial tone and careful analysis of the characters in his stories always guided his plots. His written work is available at Hachette Book Group .

Famous quote: “What really knocks me out is a book that, when you’re all done reading it, you wish the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it. That doesn’t happen much, though.” ― J.D. Salinger .

85. Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930)

British writer and physician Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in his garden.

British writer and physician Arthur Conan Doyle, born in Edinburgh, Scotland, became known for his iconic creation of the detective Sherlock Holmes, a mystery book character who has become synonymous with stealth. Doyle was educated at the University of Edinburgh, where he studied medicine; he offered his medical services during the South African War and detailed his experience in his non-fiction book, The Great Boer War . Doyle’s writing, characterized by a keen attention to detail and deliberate plotting, made a lasting impact on detective-themed storytelling and secured Sherlock Holmes as a blueprint for the detective-mystery genre. Even though he created the highly logical and skeptical detective Sherlock Holmes, Doyle was a firm believer in spiritualism and became one of the leaders of the spiritualist movement following the First World War. His book The History of Spiritualism further examined the topic through a variety of essays. Apart from his detective stories, Doyle also wrote historical novels , science fiction, plays and fantasy. His works are available at Harrington Books Co .

Famous quote: “You see, but you do not observe.” — Arthur Conan Doyle .

84. Sylvia Plath ( 1932-1963)

Sylvia Plath seated in front of a bookshelf.

Sylvia Plath was an American poet and novelist known for her confessional style of writing. That confessional writing style became more widely recognized during the 1950s and 1960s, with Plath being one of its leading figures alongside poets like Robert Lowell and Anne Sexton​. Born in Boston, Plath’s work was unique for its intensity and focus on mental illness. Very often, Plath’s state of mind was expressed through her writings, and some of her best-known works include the poetry collection Ariel, Daddy, Lady Lazarus and The Bell Jar, which mirrored her own struggles with depression . Plath’s The Collected Poems , which included previously unpublished works, was posthumously published in 1981, and she received a Pulitzer Prize in Poetry for the collection in 1982, making her the fourth person to receive the recognition posthumously at the time. Her works are available at HarperColins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “If you expect nothing from somebody you are never disappointed.”― Sylvia Plath .

83. Roald Dahl (1916-1990)

Closeup candid portrait of writer Roald Dahl waving a cigarette while talking at home.

Roald Dahl’s zany and often times dark children’s books , like Matilda , Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach , have been fan favorites for decades. This is partly thanks to the Wales-born writer’s penchant for the otherworldly and adventurous. Dahl, who often had views that were deemed controversial, tapped into a wide range of emotions and subjects in his works. Almost every visual adaptation of a Dahl-inspired storyline has the same element of strangeness, with larger-than-life protagonists who have a lopsided, loopy way about them. Dahl’s past as a fighter pilot in World War II and his role as a spy for the British government also partly inspired his adventurous approach to writing stories. Although he was well-known for children’s books, Dahl wasn’t just about entertaining children. His grisly-themed short stories for adults also explored the darker sides of human nature, and highlighted his versatility as a writer. Even after his death, fans remember his work for the way he reconciled the fantastical with the sinister, which has made him a notable name in history. In 2021, Forbes ranked Dahl as one of the top-earning dead celebrities, and with over 300 million copies of his works sold worldwide, Dahl’s work continues to impact literature. They are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “So please, oh please, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, and in its place you can install, a lovely bookshelf on the wall.”― Roald Dahl .

82. Zadie Smith (1975- )

Zadie Smith at the Cliveden Literary Festival in Windsor, England.

London-born Zadie Smith is a critically acclaimed British novelist, essayist, professor and avid reader known for her vibrant, multi-layered story structures and careful explorations of race, identity and multiculturalism. Her debut novel White Teeth caught the attention of many critics who appreciated her take on multiculturalism and identity in modern Britain and beyond. Smith’s character development in her debut book was so excellent that it prompted critics to call her a modern-day Charles Dickens. Over the course of her career, Smith’s unique insight into sensitive issues like race, identity and religion have made her a well-respected figure of the 21st century. Her intelligent analysis of the diverse, multicultural experience of life in London and beyond it has helped to frame her as a leading voice in contemporary fiction. In spite of this, Smith has developed a rather pragmatic approach to writing, arguing that the art form should not be a division of head and heart, but the useful integration of both. Other notable works from Smith include On Beauty, Changing My Mind: Occasional Essays and Feel Free. Her work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Every moment happens twice: inside and outside, and they are two different histories.”― Zadie Smith .

81. Aesop (620 B.C.-564 B.C.)

A bust of slave and story-teller Aesop (620 - 560 BC), who lived in ancient Greece and is known for ... [+] the genre of fables ascribed to him, circa 550 B.C.

Fables have been a crucial part of human storytelling for millennia, and that is partly because one of the most revered fabulists, Aesop, who is responsible for some of the most popular fables in history. The fabled ancient Greek fabulist and storyteller is known for his collection of fables, known as Aesop’s Fables , which include stories like The Tortoise and the Hare and The Boy Who Cried Wolf, which symbolize evergreen moral lessons through simple and memorable stories that have been passed on from one generation to the next. Aesop’s stories have become a cornerstone in children’s literature because of their pithy and wise observations of human nature, often featuring animals as characters with human traits and vices. These timeless stories have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various cultural contexts, influencing folklore and storytelling traditions worldwide. While much about Aesop’s life is a mystery, his stories have had a lasting effect on Western culture and education. Aesop’s work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “A doubtful friend is worse than a certain enemy. Let a man be one thing or the other, and we then know how to meet him.”― Aesop .

80. Ralph Waldo Ellison (1914-1994)

Novelist Ralph Ellison poses for a portrait in Harlem, New York City.

Born in Oklahoma City, Ralph Waldo Ellison, named after Ralph Waldo Emerson, wrote in a way that was notable for its rich, symbolic and honest accounts of race and individuality in America. At the start of his career, Ellison moved to New York City in 1936 and lived in Harlem, hoping to be able to study sculpture. It was there that he would meet Langston Hughes, Harlem’s “unofficial diplomat” during the Depression era, and a well-respected author at the time. While in Harlem, Ellison also met influential people like Romare Bearden and Richard Wright, all of whom would become impactful in his life as an author. After serving in World War II, Ellison produced Invisible Man , which won the 1953 National Book Award for Fiction. The book was particularly celebrated for its complex storyline and thematic content​. Although he became well-known for his novel, his compiled essays and his work as a sculptor, musician, photographer and college professor earned him accolades and recognition as well. Ellison’s compiled essays included collections like Shadow and Act and Going to the Territory . Other works by Ellison include Flying Home and Other Stories and Juneteenth, which were posthumously published . Ellison’s work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Life is to be lived, not controlled, and humanity is won by continuing to play in the face of certain defeat.”― Ralph Ellison .

79. Isabel Allende (1942- )

Isabel Allende photographed in her home on February 12, 1990 in San Rafael, California.

Isabel Allende is a Lima, Peru-born author who is famous for books that mostly contain strong elements of magical realism. Her storytelling style tends to incorporate the personal with the historical, bringing Latin American culture and history to life. Some of Allende’s most famous books include City of the Beasts , The House of the Spirits and Eva Luna . Allende spent much of her childhood in Chile and various other countries because of her stepfather’s diplomatic career. Allende continues to write and has earned the respect of critics for her apt imagination and restless ambition to keep creating stories that refine wat magic realism represents. She has won numerous awards for her work, including the National Literature Prize of Chile, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Book Award for Lifetime Achievement, among others. Her books can be found at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Magical realism is a genre of literature that depicts the real world as having an undercurrent of magic or fantasy.” — Isabel Allende .

78. Jorge Luis Borges (1899-1986)

Jorge Luis Borges at the Sorbonne university in Paris, France In 1978.

Jorge Luis Borges was an imaginative poet, essayist and short story writer who skillfully crafted a career by creating complex and imaginative plots that are defined by labyrinths, mirrors and infinite libraries. The Argentina-born author has become a 20th century icon for his effective storytelling and unprecedented ability to concoct the boundaries of reality and fiction to create stories that intrigue and fascinate. As a writer, Borges has created an extensive body of work that has left its imprint on literature, primarily short stories and essays that have been drawn from the inspiration of Buenos Aires. Some of his best known works are The Library of Babel and Fictions . His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.” — Jorge Luis Borges .

77. John Milton ( 1608-1674)

Engraved portrait of British poet and politician John Milton (1608 - 1674), mid 17th century.

English historian, poet and pamphleteer John Milton is considered one of the most important figures in British literature. Milton’s reputation as a great is partly because his work spanned various genres, including prose and poetry, which has offered every type of reader a plethora of options to choose from. Milton’ s Paradise Lost , published in 1667, is widely regarded as his magnum opus, consisting of ten books that were later expanded to twelve in the 1674 edition. Even though he was blind in both eyes when he created Paradise Lost , his ability to compose such complex and detailed work is a testament to his intellectual acumen. Milton was often unafraid to share his thoughts on tyrannical leadership and the state of religion, and that is primarily what made him an unforgettable writer. Other notable works from Milton include Paradise Regained and Samson Agonistes. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.” — John Milton .

76. Toni Morrison (1931-2019)

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Toni Morrison photographed in New York City in 1979.

Born in Lorain, Ohio, Toni Morrison was a Nobel Prize-winning author whose work took readers on a deep exploration of the Black experience. Her critically acclaimed novels, such as the Pulitzer-prize winning Beloved , evocative Song of Solomon and The Bluest Eye , are honored for their poetic prose and immense emotional and cultural impact. Morrison wasn’t just a writer; she was a thought leader whose ideas remain relevant to today. Like James Baldwin, her criticism of unjust society has remained a cornerstone for conversations around race and class. In addition to novels, she wrote essays, children’s books, articles and plays that showcased her genius as a writer. Her works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The function of freedom is to free someone else.” — Toni Morrison .

75. Henry James (1843-1916)

American novelist Henry James in his study.

Henry James, born in New York City, was an American-British author known for his contributions to the 20th-century novel as well as literary realism and modernism. His writing focused on his beliefs concerning the innocence and exuberance of the New World in contrast to the jadedness of the Old. His notable works include Daisy Miller , The Portrait of a Lady , The Turn of the Screw and The Wings of the Dove . James’s writing often explored the complicated nature of the human mind and social reform and revolutions, as well as social consciousness. During his time, James was regarded as a brilliant short story writer whose work frequently appeared in magazines. James also wrote poems and memoirs. His work is available at the Library of America .

Famous quote: “Try to be one of those on whom nothing is lost.” — Henry James .

74. D.H. Lawrence (1885-1930)

Still image of D.H. Lawrence.

David Herbert Lawrence, born in Eastwood, England, was a novelist, poet and essayist known for his controversial and unconventional storytelling, which inevitably made him one of the most influential writers in the early 20th century. His novels emphasized multiple themes, including vivid realism, sexuality and complex family dynamics. During his time, Lawrence had an uncanny ability to vividly describe human emotions and states of mind, which were both compelling and relatable to readers. Some of his best-known books include Sons and Lovers and Women in Love. The English author also wrote short stories, plays, travel books and letters. Some of his work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “A woman has to live her life, or live to repent not having lived it.” — D.H. Lawrence .

73. Wole Soyinka (1934- )

Wole Soyinka circa 1986.

Wole Soyinka is a Nigerian playwright, political activist, poet and essayist who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, becoming the first African laureate to do so. Born in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Soyinka grew up in an environment that was rich with the Nigerian Yoruba culture , which significantly influenced his work. He studied in Nigeria and the UK, where he attended the University of Leeds. Throughout his career, Soyinka has been a vocal critic of Nigerian dictatorships, which led to his imprisonment during the Nigerian Civil War and subsequent exile. Soyinka’s writing style is noted for its lyrical quality, which often weaves traditional African theater with Western literary forms. Some of his most influential works include Myth, Literature, and the African World; Death and the King’s Horseman ; the novel The Man Died: Prison Notes and the memoir Ake: The Years of Childhood . His works can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Books and all forms of writing are terror to those who wish to suppress truth.”― Wole Soyinka .

72. Chinua Achebe (1930-2013)

Chinua Achebe.

Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, born in Ogidi, Nigeria, is considered an African icon and an ambassador for the Igbo tribe. To this day, Achebe’s novel Things Fall Apart is a cornerstone of modern African study and has been globally celebrated in scholarly circles for its vivid depiction of the clash between traditional African culture and colonial influences. Achebe’s work has been regarded as a central piece to modern African Literature and his lucid writing style, known for its syllogistic conjoinment of oratory, folk stories and Igbo proverbs has depicted the core of African societies. Achebe’s writing style has also been marked by its poetic, yet stark analogy of Nigerian culture and society but more specifically, the Nigerian Igbo culture. Achebe’s works extend beyond novels to essays, poetry and short stories. His books can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “If you don’t like someone’s story, write your own.” — Chinua Achebe .

71. Agatha Christie (1890-1976)

English detective novelist, Agatha Christie typing at her home, Greenway House, Devon, England ... [+] January 1946.

English writer Agatha Christie was known for her prolific creation of detective novels and the iconic characters Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, who drove many of her stories. Born Agatha Mary Clarissa Miller in 1890 in Torquay, England, Christie's journey from a privileged upbringing to becoming one of the best-selling authors of all time began while she was working as a nurse during World War I. Her debut novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles , was published in 1920 and would become a stepping stone for an iconic repertoire. ​Most of Christie’s books have a similar formula that includes meticulous plotting, clever plot twists and engaging mysteries that are difficult to determine for readers until the very end of the story. With over two billion books sold worldwide, Christie’s influence on mystery is undeniable, and her works have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various films, television series and stage plays. Some of Christie’s most influential works include Murder on the Orient Express , T he Murder of Roger Ackroyd , and And Then There Were None , which are celebrated for their complex plots and surprising resolutions. Christie’s books are available for purchase at HarperCollins Publishers

Famous quote: “A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity. It dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path. ― Agatha Christie .

70. Franz Kafka (1883-1924)

Franz Kafka circa 1915.

Franz Kafka, born in Prague, was a German-speaking Bohemian writer who was known for his surreal and existential approach to telling stories. Kafka’s notable books include The Metamorphosis , Letter to His Father and The Castle . His stories were often filled with themes of alienation and absurdity and he often depicted his characters as alienated people facing systemic oppression and isolation. He was one of the most prominent writers to showcase the impact of societal shunning through the lens of the shunned. Although Kafka was a talented writer who spent long nights immersed in his craft, his struggles with constant self-doubt caused him to destroy 90% of his work and much of what survived remains lost or unpublished. Other Kafka words include Contemplation and A Country Doctor. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us.” — Franz Kafka .

69. J.K. Rowling (1965- )

J.K. Rowling attends the European premiere of "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" at Odeon ... [+] Leicester Square on November 15, 2016 in London.

J.K. Rowling, born Joanne Rowling in Gloucestershire, England, is a British author best known for creating the globally beloved Harry Potter series. Her journey from a struggling single mother to one of the world’s most successful and influential writers is a remarkable one that has heightened the appeal of her success story. According to Rowling, she jotted down the initial idea for Harry Potter on a napkin while her train from Manchester to London was delayed for hours in 1990. According to the famous writer, she had a visceral reaction to the concept of the main character who would go on to define her career and this napkin became the starting point for her immensely popular series. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (retitled Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in the U.S.) was published in 1997 after being rejected by numerous publishers. The book quickly became a success and has since expanded into a seven-volume series and sold over 600 million copies worldwide, inspiring a global billion-dollar media franchise. Many of Rowling fans consider Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to be the unofficial eighth book in the series. Although Rowling is well known for The Harry Potter series, other books in her repertoire are Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and The Tales of Beedle the Bard among others . Her books are available at Bloomsbury Publishing .

Famous Quote: “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” ― J.K. Rowling .

68. Emily Dickinson (1830-1886)

American poet Emily Dickinson.

Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, Emily Dickinson is one of America’s most important lyric poets. Dickinson was known for her unconventional approach to painting a literary picture, and even her use of punctuation marks, which was reflected in an approach to the art form which critics often defined as concise and enigmatic, has established her as a unique and quintessential American poet. Dickinson’s poetry themes often explored death, immortality and nature. Her reclusive life was always ever-so-evident in her work, which is replete with short lines, slant rhyme and enigmatic language. Some of her famous works include I’m Nobody! Who are you?, Wild Nights – Wild Nights! and Because I could not stop for Death. Even though Dickinson wrote nearly 1,800 poems during her lifetime, fewer than a dozen of her poems appeared in print while she was alive. Apart from writing, Dickinson was also an accomplished gardener who frequently drew inspiration for her poems from the natural world she carefully tended to. Her collected works are available at the Harvard Library .

Famous quote: “Because I could not stop for Death – He kindly stopped for me—The Carriage held but just Ourselves –And Immortality.” — Emily Dickinson .

67. Mark Twain ( Samuel Langhorne Clemens) (1835-1910)

Colorized portrait of American author and humorist Mark Twain, circa 1900.

American writer, humorist, educator and journalist Mark Twain has become a decades-long household name for his apt depiction of the spirit of adventure. Twain, who was born Samuel Langhorne Clemens in Florida, Missouri, is often called the “father of American literature.” Known for his quick wit and sharp social commentary, Twain’s impressive output includes The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer . Both of these books have served as a blueprint for high-spirited, adventure-loving children around the world. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Travel is fatal to prejudice” — Mark Twain .

66. William Faulkner (1897-1962)

William Faulkner, circa 1935, on display at his Rowan Oak estate in Oxford, Mississippi.

Nobel Prize-winning American writer William Faulkner was well-known for his technical approach to writing and his ability to deep-dive into the human psyche with his stylistic prose. His famous novels, such as The Sound and the Fury , As I Lay Dying and Light in August, have become cornerstones of Southern Gothic literature. One distinct feature of Faulkner’s writing was his alternating exploration of thematic structure and stylistic creativity. Faulkner also wrote screenplays and short stories, and is regarded as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed. If people all over the world... would do this, it would change the earth.”― William Faulkner .

65. T.S. Eliot (1888–1965)

T. S. Eliot inspecting manuscripts.

T.S. Eliot, born in St. Louis, was a leading playwright, poet and essayist of the 20th century. The English-American who became the leader of the modernist movement in poetry had an extensive body of work that included The Waste Land, his iconic play Murder in the Cathedral and his magnum opus Four Quartets, which are all renowned for their unorthodox, yet brilliant approach to storytelling. Eliot’s influence was palpable, so much so that in 1948, he earned a Nobel Prize for Literature. Beyond poetry, Eliot also wrote drama and was a literary critic. His work is available at Faber & Faber .

Famous quote: “Do I dare disturb the universe? In a minute, there is time for decisions and revisions, which a minute will reverse.”― T.S. Eliot .

64. F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896-1940)

F. Scott Fitzgerald writing at a desk.

Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, born in St. Paul, was an American novelist, short story writer and Hollywood scriptwriter who became known for his vivid depiction of the Jazz Age. Fitzgerald is not just a famous writer, but one that is crucial to the breadth and depth of American literature and the concept of the American Dream itself. His masterpiece, The Great Gatsby , is a profound critique of the American Dream and one of the most important novels about the American ideal. Fitzgerald’s writing was often characterized by lyrical prose and tragic characters, which have made his work timeless. Other notable Fitzgerald books include Tender Is the Night and This Side of Paradise . His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald.

63. Marcel Proust (1871-1922)

French novelist Marcel Proust (Photo by Apic/Getty Images)

Marcel Proust, born in Auteuil, near Paris, France and he is best known for his crowing glory In Search of Lost Time ( À la Recherche du Temps Perdu ). The seven-volume series were published throughout his lifetime and even after his death, and they explored themes of memory, time and art with precise depth and elegance. Proust’s psychological insight has made his work a blueprint for modern writing. More specifically, his ability to capture the nuances of memory and the fleeting nature of time has made In Search of Lost Time a classic. The seven-part novel examines the story of Proust’s life, told as a quest to find truth and meaning. In the book, Proust wrote what was reported to be the longest sentence ever published, and holds the record for doing so at a whopping 847 words.​ Proust’s work introduced the concept of involuntary memory, which is often referred to as the “Proust Effect.” This concept describes how sensory experiences, like taste or smell, can prompt suppressed memories from the past. Other notable works by Proust include Swann’s Way ( Du CĂŽtĂ© de Chez Swann ). Proust also wrote short stories, including Les Plaisirs et les Jours, and most of his works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”— Marcel Proust .

62. Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880)

The French novelist Gustav Flaubert circa 1851.

Gustave Flaubert, renowned for his bourgeois-themed novel Madame Bovary , was a prominent author in the literary realism movement. It wasn’t just the themes of his work that distinguished him, but his obsessive attention to detail and pursuit of stylistic perfection which has set the high bar for other novelists, especially up-and-coming French writers. Flaubert’s candid portrayals of his characters made him a leading figure in the realist school of French literature and earned him the respect of his peers. Flaubert viewed writing as his life’s purpose, which is why he was able to create vivid characters and portray everyday life so poignantly. Although he was born in Rouen, France, Flaubert was an avid traveler who took the time to see the world outside of his comfort zone. His travel to countries like Egypt and Greece and the Middle East influenced his works, adding depth and authenticity to his descriptions, particularly in novels like Salammbî ​. Other well-known Flaubert pieces are Sentimental Education and Three Tales. His work is available at Simon& Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be violent and original in your work.”― Gustav Flaubert .

61. Thomas Mann (1875-1955)

Portrait of German author Thomas Mann as he sits at his desk.

Thomas Mann was a German essayist and novelist best known for his novels Buddenbrooks , Der Tod in Venedig and Der Zauberberg, which contributed to earning him a Nobel Prize for Literature in 1929. Mann’s first major novel, Buddenbrooks , was inspired by his personal experiences and his family’s background as merchants in LĂŒbeck, Germany, where he was born. Buddenbrooks played a major role in earning him the Nobel Prize in Literature, but it was his other acclaimed work, The Magic Mountain, that would make him a household name. In The Magic Mountain, Mann highlighted complex themes of time, illness and death set against the backdrop of a Swiss sanatorium, which made the book a cultural touchstone and increased Mann’s critical acclaim. Notably, in his writings, Mann also critiqued the German government in many of his writings and was an outspoken critic of the Nazi regime. This led him to move to Switzerland in 1936 after he was exiled by Germany in 1933. He would later emigrate to the United States, where he lived until after World War II. His books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Tolerance becomes a crime when applied to evil.” ― Thomas Mann .

60. J. R. R. Tolkien (1892-1973)

Image of John Ronald Reuel Tolkien in a library.

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, who is famously known as J. R. R. Tolkien, was a South-African-English author, poet, professor and philologist whose high-fantasy works The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy became pivotal literary landmarks in his career. Tolkien’s richly constructed world of Middle-earth, complete with its own languages, histories and cultures, has had a lasting impact on the fantasy genre and pop culture. Tolkien’s imagination, as depicted through his use of mythology, detailed maps and complex characters, has set the bar high for world-building in literature. As a writer and creator, Tolkien’s expertise in language was especially evident in his invention of Elvish languages like Quenya and Sindarin, which reflected his academic background as a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University. His scholarly works, including his translations and studies of ancient texts such as "Beowulf," influenced his creative process and informed the depth of most of his fictional universe. Modern day filmmakers have used Tolkien’s work as a blueprint for bringing the lore of Middle-earth to the big screen. His creativity has inspired an array of adaptations, including animated films, live-action movies and numerous video games. Tolkein’s books are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous quote: “Not all those who wander are lost.”― J.R.R. Tolkien .

59. Robert Frost (1874-1963)

American icon, poet Robert Frost.

Robert Frost, with his depiction of rural New England life, is one of America’s most celebrated poets. Frost’s simple and understated signature writing is what earned him four Pulitzer Prizes during the life of his career. Although the famous poet has been closely linked to New England, he was actually born in San Francisco, and only moved to Massachusetts at 11 after his father’s death. This move would later influence his career and reputation as a writer. Some of Frost’s prominent works include Mountain Interval , New Hampshire and A Witness Tree, all of which won Pulitzer Prizes. In addition to his literary accomplishments, Frost also had an impactful academic career that gave him the opportunity to teach at several colleges. He taught at Amherst College and also at Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College, where he spent many summers teaching and mentoring young writers. Frost’s legacy extended beyond his poetry; he was invited to read a poem titled The Gift Outright at President John F. Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961. Frost’s work are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself.”― Robert Frost .

58. Alexandre Dumas (1802-1870)

Author Alexandre Dumas.

Alexandre Dumas is a key author of 19th century historical adventure novels, and is well known for stories like The Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers . Dumas was born in Villers-CotterĂȘts, France, and was of mixed race. This racial ambiguity would become a sticking point in his career and something that he would address in his 1843 novel Georges . Dumas’ family background also inspired his interest in historical-based writing. His father, General Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, was an army general in Napoleon’s army and one of the highest-ranking officers. It can be easy to conclude that Dumas’ interest in using historical contexts as setting for his stories were inspired by his own background. Besides novels, Dumas also wrote memoirs and plays. Some of his most notable plays include NapolĂ©on Bonaparte and the classic story of Antony. Dumas’ works are available at Barnes and Noble .

Famous quote: “Never fear quarrels, but seek hazardous adventures.”― Alexandre Dumas .

57. Nikolai Gogol (1809-1852)

Illustration of Nikolai Vassilievich Gogol.

Nikolai Gogol was a Ukrainian-born novelist, humorist and dramatist whose works were pivotal in the progression and reception of European literature. His satirical works, as depicted in stories like Dead Souls , masterfully critiqued the social and political issues of 19th-century Russia. Gogol employed his sharp wit and incisive observations on society to analyze issues of the corruption, greed and moral decay that were prevalent in 19th century Russian society. Other works like The Nose and The Overcoat depicted him as a versatile writer capable of employing creative techniques to make difficult topics more digestible for readers, and this solidified his credibility and earned him a reputation as an innovative writer. Gogol’s sharp intellect, coupled with his command of prose made him a well-respected writer whose influence continues to be relevant in Russian literature. His books can be found at Barnes & Noble .

Famous quote: “Always think of what is useful and not what is beautiful. Beauty will come of its own accord.”― Nikolai Gogol .

56. Haruki Murakami (1949- )

Haruki Murakami arrives at the "Princesa de Asturias" Awards at Teatro Campoamor on October 20, 2023 ... [+] in Asturias, Spain.

Haruki Murakami’s writing style is characterized by reflective and introspection. The contemporary Japanese author has gained a global following for the unique combination of surrealism and melancholy that he brings to his books. Born in Kyoto, his body of work includes novels, essays and short stories, and his books have sold millions of copies worldwide. Some of his famous pieces include Norwegian Wood, 1Q84 and Kafka on the Shore, which earned him the World Fantasy Award in 2006. Murakami’s work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “We’re both looking at the same moon, in the same world. We’re connected to reality by the same line. All I have to do is quietly draw it towards me.” — Haruki Murakami .

55. Kurt Vonnegut (1922-2007)

Writer Kurt Vonnegut at home on April 12, 1972 in New York City.

Kurt Vonnegut was an author and short-story writer who was renowned for his wry, satirical novels, including The Sirens of Titan and Slaughterhouse-Five , a war-themed novel that was interspersed with cultural references that enriched its satirical edge. During his lifetime, Vonnegut shared that his work was influenced by George Orwell, Mark Twain and James Joyce, among others, and it is easy to see why. Apart from his unique and often bleakly humorous style, Vonnegut’s works frequently feature recurring themes such as the folly of war, the randomness of the universe, and the illusion of free will, especially in issues like death and life. The Indianapolis-born writer was also known for using the phrase ““And so it goes...” to illustrate the unavoidable finality of death. In his novel Cat’s Cradle , Vonnegut challenged the dangers of scientific advancement without moral oversight, while Player Piano — a book that seemed ahead of its time — discusses the economic hardship that can happen when human jobs becoming replaced by automated systems. A little known fact about Vonnegut’s humanitarian and scientific skepticism was the fact that he was a prisoner of war during World War II, and this influenced some of the angst in his writing, especially in Slaughterhouse-Five . Vonnegut’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “And so it goes...”― Kurt Vonnegut .

54. Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894)

Portrait Robert Louis Stevenson, 19th century English poet and novelist.

Robert Louis Stevenson’s writings were not just memorable, they had a life-like manner to them. Perhaps this was because of his superior writing skills, but notable classics like Treasure Island, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde , which explored the duality of human nature, and Kidnapped , a historical adventure story set in Scotland, have made the Scotland-born essayist and poet a relevant figure even today. His evergreen insight into psychology is still resonant and impactful, offering timeless reflections on the human mind and the complex nature of morality and identity. A little known fact about Stevenson is his struggle with chronic health issues throughout his life, which influenced his writing style and themes. Regardless of his frail health, Stevenson traveled extensively, drawing inspiration from his journeys to places like the South Pacific, which influenced works such as In the South Seas . Although Stevenson’s father wanted him to pursue a career path in engineering, his decision to put pen to paper instead have earned him a distinguished place in literary history. Stevenson’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Keep your fears to yourself, but share your courage with others.”― Robert Louis Stevenson .

53. George Orwell (1903-1950)

Still image of Eric Arthur Blair also known as George Orwell.

George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair in India, was an English novelist, journalist and essayist best known for his wildly successful novels 1984 and Animal Farm . Orwell’s writing was known for its conciseness, clarity and political insight. He was also famous for his critique of totalitarianism and used his writing to advocate for democratic socialism. His commitment to social justice was not just evident in his fictional writing; it also came alive in his essays, journalism and memoirs. Orwell’s experiences in the Spanish Civil War, documented in his autobiographical account, Homage to Catalonia , and his insight into the lives of the poor in Down and Out in Paris and London , were a part of his advocacy as a storyteller who was committed to exposing social injustice. In essays like Shooting an Elephant and Politics and the English Language, Orwell proved that he could tackle complex political and social issues in a straightforward way that was also not trite. His ability to interweave personal experience with broader social commentary has left a lasting impression, not just on literature, but on global political thought. His works can be found at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.” — George Orwell .

52. David Foster Wallace (1962-2008)

Close-up shot of Author David Foster Wallace.

Before becoming a renowned writer, David Foster Wallace was a competitive junior tennis player whose love for the sport often found its way into his writing, providing rich metaphors and insights into human behavior and competition​. The New York-born author completed his undergraduate degree at Amherst College, where he majored in English and philosophy. He was working towards his masters degree when his acclaimed debut novel, The Broom of the System was published . Other notable works from Wallace include Infinite Jest and short storie s like A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again and Consider the Lobster, and Other Essays. Wallace’s writing is known for its signature use of by its use of extensive footnotes and endnotes, which provide additional commentary and tangential information, providing depth and context to his readers. This distinctive style has captivated readers and set his work apart from that of other contemporary writers. Wallace struggled with mental health throughout his career and this influenced a lot of his writing. At the time of his death in 2008, Wallace was working on a novel titled The Pale King . This unfinished manuscript was posthumously published in 2011 and received critical acclaim.. Wallace’s works are available at Hachette Book Group .

Famous quote: “The so-called “psychotically depressed” person who tries to kill herself doesn’t do so out of quote “hopelessness” or any abstract conviction that life’s assets and debits do not square. And surely not because death seems suddenly appealing. The person in whom Its invisible agony reaches a certain unendurable level will kill herself the same way a trapped person will eventually jump from the window of a burning high-rise. Make no mistake about people who leap from burning windows. Their terror of falling from a great height is still just as great as it would be for you or me standing speculatively at the same window just checking out the view; i.e. the fear of falling remains a constant. The variable here is the other terror, the fire’s flames: when the flames get close enough, falling to death becomes the slightly less terrible of two terrors. It’s not desiring the fall; it’s terror of the flames. And yet nobody down on the sidewalk, looking up and yelling ‘Don’t!’ and ‘Hang on!’, can understand the jump. Not really. You’d have to have personally been trapped and felt flames to really understand a terror way beyond falling.”― David Foster Wallace .

51. Edith Wharton (1862-1937)

Edith Wharton

American novelist and poet Edith Wharton was born in New York City into a well-established family. Her childhood was characterized by the finest luxuries that money could afford. Years later, this upbringing would inspire her writing because she later became well-known for her incisive portrayals of the American upper class. Her notable works, including The Age of Innocence, The House of Mirth and Ethan Frome examined themes of social change, class and the often noisy bothers of social expectations. Wharton was also a prominent voice in World War I and was living as an expatriate in France when the war broke out. As opposed to leaving the country and returning to comfort in America, Wharton to chose to stay and write extensively about the events that unraveled during that period, and she has become one of the most prominent storytellers of that era because of her grit and dedication during that time. Wharton’s elegant writing style and observant social commentary have her a notable author, and her ability to capture the nuances of social interactions and the tensions between individual desires has made her work timeless. Wharton’s works are available through Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Silence may be as variously shaded as speech.” — Edith Wharton .

50 . James Baldwin (1924-1987)

American Writer James Baldwin in Paris.

James Baldwin, born in Harlem, New York City, was a significant voice in American literature and a powerful advocate for civil rights. Known for his honest opinions on themes of race, sexuality and identity, Baldwin’s writing style often combined his personal experiences with poignant social critique in a way that was both provocative and intelligent. His most influential works include Go Tell It on the Mountain , Giovanni’s Room and The Fire Next Time . Although he was primarily a novelist and essayist, Baldwin’s written work is comprised of many genres, including novels, short stories, essays, songs, children’s literature, poetry and drama. His works can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” — James Baldwin .

49. Voltaire (1694-1778)

Engraved portrait of Voltaire by Nicholas de Largilliere.

Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet in Paris, was an Enlightenment writer and philosopher. His razor-sharp intellect and advocacy of civil liberties set him apart in his time. His writing career began early, and his unique interest in satire brought him both recognition and controversy. His satirical novella Candide , a scathing critique of optimism and organized religion, remains relevant today for its incisive commentary on human suffering and the foolishness of naive idealism. His other well-known work, Lettres Philosophiques, is an essay-style series that provides a unique insight into Voltaire's experiences in Britain. In addition to books, Voltaire also wrote poems, plays and polemics, each with its own unique perspective. This diversity in his work is a testament to his wide-ranging intellect and interests. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “To the living we owe respect, but to the dead we owe only the truth.” — Voltaire.

48. Langston Hughes (1902-1967)

A portrait of poet, author, playwright and Harlem Renaissance leader Langston Hughes, New York, New ... [+] York, February 1959.

Langston Hughes was an important American poet, novelist, social activist, playwright and columnist from Joplin, Missouri, whose work spanned various genres, including poetry, short stories, novels and plays. Hughes was also influential during the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement of the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated African American cultural expressions and became a period that was renowned for its flourishing artistic, literary and intellectual achievements. This celebration of African American culture enriched the literary and artistic landscape of the time. Apart from leading the Harlem Renaissance movement, Hughes was also one of the creators of the literary genre known as jazz poetry, a rich form of literature that captures the core of jazz music and is illustrated by its jazz-like rhythm and focus on jazz music or musicians as its main elements. Born in 1902, Hughes’ writing frequently focused on the lives of Black Americans, their struggles, and their joys, marked by a sense of social justice and a celebration of Blackness. Some of his most notable works include The Weary Blues, Harlem , The Ways of White Folks and The Big Sea . His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Let the rain kiss you. Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops. Let the rain sing you a lullaby.”― Langston Hughes .

47. John Steinbeck (1902-1968)

John Steinbeck holds a press conference after being awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize for Literature.

The working-class life is one that can seem so mundane and ordinary, yet John Steinbeck, born in Salinas, California, created a niche in literature for his honest and empathetic portrayal of working-class life. The Nobel Prize-winning American author knew that the average reader was a working-class member of society and he created characters to cater to that niche. His notable works include The Grapes of Wrath , The Pearl and East of Eden . A majority of Steinbeck’s writing is marked by its social consciousness and humanism. Steinback also wrote poems, plays and short stories. His work. is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ I am impelled, not to squeak like a grateful and apologetic mouse, but to roar like a lion out of pride in my profession.” — John Steinbeck .

46. Vladimir Nabokov (1899-1977)

Russian-American novelist Vladimir Nabokov in Montreux, Switzerland, circa 1965.

Russian-American novelist Vladimir Nabokov is best known for his novel Lolita , a controversial yet masterfully written story about warped obsession and how depraved the human mind can become. Nabokov’s writing was always characterized by its poetic flow, intricate language, literary allusions and narrative structure. Nabokov dabbled in a lot of different types of writing, including poetry, science writing, translations and autobiographies. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Human life is but a series of footnotes to a vast, obscure, unfinished masterpiece”― Vladimir Nabokov .

45. Albert Camus (1913-1960)

French writer Albert Camus poses for a portrait in Paris following the announcement of his being ... [+] awarded the Nobel Prize for literature.

French-Algerian novelist and Nobel Prize winner Albert Camus was a true literary powerhouse, whose skill for the written word also earned him the titles of journalist, playwright, novelist and essayist. As a leader of the existentialism movement, Camus became best known for his novels The Stranger , The Plague and his philosophical essay The Myth of Sisyphus . His writings frequently addressed themes of justice, rebellion and otherness. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” ― Albert Camus .

44. Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900)

German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche.

Friedrich Nietzsche was a Röcke, Germany-born philosopher whose provocative ideas and radical critiques of morality, religion and contemporary culture left an impact on intellectual history. Nietzsche was best known for his declaration that “God is dead” and his exploration of the concept of the Übermensch, with Nietzsche arguing that the Übermensch would transcend conventional Christian morality. His work addressed the human psyche, challenging traditional notions of truth, and frequently critiquing both traditional and modern values. His notable works, including Thus Spoke Zarathustra , The Birth of Tragedy , Beyond Good and Evil and The Genealogy of Morals , which offer a three-dimensional approach into the questions that lay the foundations for Western thought. Nietzsche’s work has influenced generations of theologians, philosophers, psychologists, poets, novelists, and playwrights. Apart from his philosophical influence, Nietzsche’s life was also marked by intense personal struggles like debilitating migraines and deteriorating eyesight, which forced him to retire from his professorship at a relatively young age. Interestingly, Nietzsche was also a composer, having created several musical pieces that reflected his complex and introspective worldview. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.”― Friedrich Nietzsche .

43. Hermann Hesse (1877-1962)

German-born novelist Hermann Hesse, circa 1945.

Nobel Prize winner Hermann Hesse was a German-Swiss poet, novelist and painter whose writing emphasized the importance of identity and non-conformity. The Calw, Germany-born writer is famous for books like Siddhartha , Steppenwolf and The Glass Bead Game. Hesse’s written pieces often went beyond the surface of exploring trite self-discovery and explored more complex issues like spirituality and self-actualization. As a true intellectual himself, many of Hessse’s characters also mimicked his sharp mind. Besides books, Hesse also wrote essays, short-stories and poems. His work is available at Macmillan Publishers .

Famous quote: “I have been and still am a seeker, but I have ceased to question stars and books; I have begun to listen to the teaching my blood whispers to me.” — Hermann Hesse .

42. Gabriel GarcĂ­a MĂĄrquez (1927-2014)

Colombian writer and Nobel prize winner Gabriel Garcia Marquez poses for a portrait on September 11, ... [+] 1990 in Paris.

Gabriel GarcĂ­a MĂĄrquez, a Colombian novelist and Nobel laureate, is one of the most prominent authors of the 20th century and one of the greatest Latin American writers in history. Born in Aracataca, his magical realism-themed novels, such as One Hundred Years of Solitude, which earned him a Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982, and Love in the Time of Cholera, are just two pieces in her reportoire that have given him worldwide critical acclaim. He was primarily known for his short story expertise and his books can be found at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous quote: “What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.” — Gabriel García Márquez .

41. Thomas Hardy (1840-1928)

British author Thomas Hardy.

Stinsford, England-born Thomas Hardy was an novelist and poet who crafted a niche in his depictions of rural life and the struggles of ordinary, working-class people. His major works, including Tess of the d’Urbervilles and Far from the Madding Crowd , were pieces that centered themselves on themes of fate, suffering and the limitations of social class and structure. Hardy’s writing was always rich and textured, and his ability to capture the beauty and harshness of rural England made his work all the more appreciated. Hardy’s works are available through Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “A strong woman who recklessly throws away her strength is worse than a weak woman who has never had any strength to throw away.”― Thomas Hardy.

40. Margaret Atwood (1939- )

Margaret Atwood in Paris, 2014.

Margaret Atwood, a prolific Canadian poet and writer, is celebrated for her speculative fiction and mostly dystopian storylines. Her best-known work is top dystopian novel The Handmaid's Tale , which has become a symbol of feminist resistance and has also been adapted for TV for its powerful storytelling. With over 50 books written, Atwood’s writing, which also includes essays and poetry, is marked by its incisive social commentary and imaginative scope. Atwood’s work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ Storytelling is a very old human skill that gives us an evolutionary advantage. If you can tell young people how you kill an emu, acted out in song or dance, or that Uncle George was eaten by a croc over there, don't go there to swim, then those young people don't have to find out by trial and error.” - Margaret Atwood .

39. James Joyce (1882-1941)

James Joyce

Short story aficionado James Joyce is a prolific name in modernist literature and a name that resonates with many. His groundbreaking works, including Ulysses , A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and Dubliners , are acclaimed for their experimental techniques and close examination of the human psyche. The Dublin-born author refined his skill not only as a master storyteller but also as a credible designer of fictional characters that are deeply relatable. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “I am tomorrow, or some future day, what I establish today. I am today what I established yesterday or some previous day.” — James Joyce .

38. Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849)

Edgar Allan Poe in a 19th century print.

Mystery and macabre guru Edgar Allan Poe was an American short-story writer, literary critic, poet and editor whose Gothic-themed writing caught the world’s attention. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Poe is best known for his macabre-inclined stories like The Tell-Tale Heart , The Raven and The Fall of the House of Usher. In his personal life, Poe lived a troubled life that was rife with controversy and alleged alcoholism, which sometimes seemed to inspire his written work and its concise literary precision. Poe’s work can be found at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “I have absolutely no pleasure in the stimulants in which I sometimes so madly indulge. It has not been in the pursuit of pleasure that I have periled life and reputation and reason. It has been the desperate attempt to escape from torturing memories, from a sense of insupportable loneliness and a dread of some strange impending doom.”― Edgar Allan Poe .

37. Herbert George Wells (1866-1946)

Herbert George Wells

Born in Bromley, England, Herbert George Wells is often regarded as the father of science fiction. His classic novels , such as The War of the Worlds , The Time Machine and The Invisible Man have inspired countless adaptations and continue to influence the literary landscape for emerging writers. Although Wells’ background as a child did not expose him to a lot of opportunities, his curiosity for learning helped to lay the foundation for his scholarly pursuits and, eventually, his writing career. He is often regarded as the leading literary spokesman for liberal optimism and much of his writing often analyzes themes of social justice and scientific ethics. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ If you fell down yesterday, stand up today.” — H.G. Wells .

36. Walt Whitman ( 1819-1892)

Walt Whitman in Camden, New Jersey, circa 1891.

Walt Whitman, born in West Hills, New York, is considered one of America’s most influential poets. At the age of 12, he had finished his formal education and taught himself how to read by visiting museums in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and frequently visiting the library. Whitman’s poetry was also a mold-breaker. It defied norms and conventional poetic writing forms, later earning him recognition as a trailblazer. This approach to writing was evident in the critically-acclaimed collection, Leaves of Grass , which celebrated democracy and nature with its free-verse style and caught the attention of readers, especially European readers. The collection went through nine editions throughout Whitman’s lifetime, each edition expanding and refining his vision of the American experience and becoming one of his most acclaimed projects. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Resist much, obey little.” — Walt Whitman .

35. Maya Angelou (1928-2014)

American poet and author Maya Angelou gestures while speaking during an interview at her home.

Actress, activist, memoirist and poet Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Annie Johnson in St. Louis, was an American poet and civil rights activist whose literary acumen left a major imprint, not just on literature but on society. Angelou is best known for her series of seven autobiographies, which explore her childhood, early adult experiences, and rise to prominence. Angelou’s writing abandoned the trite for the raw, uncomfortable and challenging, often offering an unflinching honesty that made her writing both evocative and poignant. Her first autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings , published in 1969, brought her international acclaim and recognition as a powerful advocate for Black women. Her poetry collections, such as And Still I Rise and Phenomenal Woman, also earned her critical acclaim. Her works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies. You may trod me in the very dirt, but still, like dust, I'll rise.” — Maya Angelou .

34. Charlotte Brontë (1816-1855)

Illustrated image of English novelist Charlotte Brontë, seated with a small book in hand.

Charlotte BrontĂ« was born in Thornton, England, to an Anglican clergyman father and a stay-at-home mother. She is best known for her novel Jane Eyre , a groundbreaking work in the development of the novel form and in the portrayal of the inner life of a woman, much of which mimicked her childhood and adulthood. Initially published under the name Currer Bell, Jane Eyre was a massive success and is regarded as a seminal English classic. Brontë’s writing had an intense emotional gravity to it and an acute attention to detail in its characters. Her work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “I am no bird, and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will.” — Charlotte BrontĂ« .

33. George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) (1819-1880)

English novelist Mary Anne Evans, who wrote under the nom de plume of George Eliot (1819 - 1880), ... [+] pictured at the age of 30, circa 1849.

George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, was an English author who was well-respected for detailed and psychologically nuanced novels. Through her writing, she invented and later developed the method of psychological analysis, a form that was not used at the time. Born in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, England, Evans grew up in a rural environment that influenced her later works. Her keen observations of village life, combined with her deep intellectual pursuits, allowed her to create some of the most enduring and insightful works of the 19th century. Some of her most significant works include The Mill on the Floss , Adam Bede and Silas Marner . Her work is available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “Blessed is the man who, having nothing to say, abstains from giving us wordy evidence of the fact.” — George Eliot .

32. Joseph Conrad ( 1857-1924)

Black and white portrait of Joseph Conrad.

Joseph Conrad, born Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski, was a Polish-British short story writer and novelist who achieved a lot of recognition for notable bodies of work like Heart of Darkness and Lord Jim, which focus on themes of colonialism, morality and angst. Conrad was born in Berdychiv, which was previously part of the Russian Empire at the time, and is now in Ukraine. His rich command of prose and ability to tell memorable stories in a way that felt personal to every reader who picked up his work were also a signature traits of his work. Conrad frequently examined themes of moral complexity and loneliness against the backdrop of the sea, and this was inspired by his days as a sailor. As a writer, Conrad had complex skill and striking insight into the human mind and its approach to the concept of good and evil. Conrad’s books are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Those who read me know my conviction that the world, the temporal world, rests on a few very simple ideas; so simple that they must be as old as the hills. It rests, notably, among others, on the idea of Fidelity.”― Joseph Conrad .

31. C.S. Lewis (1898-1963)

Irish-born academic, writer and Christian apologist Clive Staples Lewis.

C.S Lewis, born Clive Staples Lewis in Belfast, Ireland, was a well-respected British writer, scholar, and theologian whose paradigm-shifting works have impacted both literature and global Christian thought. He is best known for his beloved children's series, The Chronicles of Narnia , a series of seven fantasy novels that have enchanted readers for generations, as well as his significant contributions to Christian apologetics and his scholarly works on medieval and Renaissance literature. Despite his broad intellectual pursuits, Lewis always remained humble, and this quality endeared him to readers and colleagues. Lewis’ works are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “A children's story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children's story in the slightest.” — C.S. Lewis .

30. Joseph Heller (1923-1999)

American author Joseph Heller sits at a desk in his home, East Hampton, Long Island, New York, 1984. ... [+]

Joseph Heller, born in Brooklyn, was another master of satire and dark comedy. His satirical novel Catch-22 became one of the most important books in the 20th century and even in pop-culture. Thanks to his sharp sense of humor, biting satire and apt narration, Heller positioned himself as one of America’s greats after Catch-22 . Other notable works by Heller include Something Happened and Good as Gold. He also wrote plays, screenplays and autobiographical works. His play We Bombed in New Haven critiques the Vietnam War, and his autobiography Now and Then: From Coney Island to Here is a memoir about his life and career. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't after you.”― Joseph Heller .

29. Stephen King (1947- )

Stephen King

Stephen King, famously known as the king of horror, was born in Portland, Maine, and is one of the most successful authors of contemporary times. King’s contributions to the horror genre as well as his extensive body of work, which spans novels, short stories, essays and screenplays, have made him a household name and an icon in popular culture. With over 60 novels and 200 short stories to his name, King’s ability to mix the gory supernatural with the everyday has thrilled and scared readers for decades. Some of his notable works include Carrie, Salem’s Lot and The Shining among others. King has written non-fiction, screenplays, and even columns and his work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Get busy living or get busy dying.”― Stephen King .

28. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (1977- )

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Nigerian writer on the sidelines of a museum opening.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, born in Enugu, Nigeria, is a critically acclaimed Nigerian writer known for her novels, poems, short stories and essays that explore themes of identity, race, migration, gender and the Nigerian postcolonial experience. In 1997, after initially studying medicine in Nsukka, Adichie decided to emigrate to the United States to pursue further education, which led to a change in her career trajectory. She completed her undergraduate studies in communication and political science at Eastern Connecticut State University, graduating with a B.A. in 2001 before later earning a master’s degree in creative writing from Johns Hopkins University. Adichie would later study African history at Yale University, and this would inform a lot of her written work. Adichie’s powerful storytelling and intelligent storytelling have made her a global voice in literature. Some of Adichie’s best work includes her debut novel, Purple Hibiscus, as well as Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, which received numerous accolades, including the National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction in 2014. Her TED Talk, We Should All Be Feminists , has also been widely influential, leading to a book of the same name that has inspired discussions on feminism worldwide. Adichie’s works continue to resonate deeply with readers around the globe, addressing contemporary issues with nuance and depth. Her works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “The problem with gender is that it prescribes how we should be rather than recognizing how we are. Imagine how much happier we would be, how much freer to be our true individual selves, if we didn’t have the weight of gender expectations.”― Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie .

27. Alice Walker (1944- )

American author and poet Alice Walker.

Alice Walker is an American novelist, poet, and activist known for her powerful exploration of race, gender and social issues. Born in 1944 in Eatonton, Georgia, Walker grew up as the youngest of eight children in a family of sharecroppers, and a BB gun accident at the age eight left her blind in one eye. After the accident, her mother gave her a typewriter, allowing her to write instead of doing chores. Her upbringing in the racially segregated South has influenced her work, and her writing vividly depicts Black life, offering readers insights into the experiences and struggles that define the Black community. In 1983, The Color Purple won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award; it was adapted into a film in 1985. Walker has also been honored with the Lillian Smith Award and the Mahmoud Darwish Literary Prize for Fiction. Other notable works by Walker include Meridian, The Third Life of Grange Copeland and Possessing the Secret of Joy . Her work is available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any.”― Alice Walker .

26. Salman Rushdie (1947-)

Salman Rushdie receives the 2023 Peace Prize of the German book trade association at Paulskirche ... [+] church on October 22, 2023 in Frankfurt, Germany. (Photo by Thomas Lohnes/Getty Images)

Indian-born British-American professor and writer Salman Rushdie began his writing career as an ad copywriter, but later decided to start writing books. His first novel, Grimus, was published in 1975 and went relatively unnoticed, but his second novel, Midnight’s Children, in 1981, catapulted him to literary stardom. The novel won the Booker Prize and was later awarded the Booker of Bookers for the best novel to have won the Booker Prize in its first 25 years. But Rushdie’s literary rise would later be clouded with a lot of controversy. In his 1988 novel The Satanic Verses, he triggered outrage among some Muslims for his portrayal of the prophet Muhammad. The book’s release led to widespread protests, bans in several countries, and, most notably, a fatwa calling for his assassination issued by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khomeini in 1989. The fatwa forced Rushdie into hiding under police protection for many years, significantly impacting his personal and professional life. Rushdie, nevertheless, continued to be a target. During a 2022 speaking engagement in Chautauqua, New York, Rushdie was brutally stabbed while on stage, effectively blinding him in his right eye and causing him permanent nerve damage. The attack inspired his memoir, Knife . Rushdie is still alive and continues to write. Most of Rushdie’s writing style is steeped in magical allegory and fantasy, and his work is available at Penguin .

Famous Quote: What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.”― Salman Rushdie .

25. Flannery O’Connor (1925-1964)

Photo of American writer Flannery O'Connor.

An extraordinary ability to coordinate the grotesque and the profound to create unsettling and insightful stories defines Flannery O'Connor’s legacy. The Southern Gothic fiction guru was born in Savannah, Georgia, to a devout Catholic family, and this background would later significantly impact her writing. Many of O’Connor’s novels are centered around questions of morality and redemption through a religious lens. Some of O’Connor’s most notable works include A Good Man Is Hard to Find , Wise Blood, and Everything That Rises Must Converge . The Southern writer wrote novels and is renowned for her short stories, considered some of the best in American literature. At some point in her life, O’Connor also considered a career as a cartoonist but did not fully pursue that career track. Despite her short life, O’Connor’s works continue to resonate with readers for portraying the complex nature of faith and humanity. Her stories remain important for those seeking to understand the darker yet redeemable aspects of humans.

Famous quote: “I don't deserve any credit for turning the other cheek, as my tongue is always in it.” ― Flannery O’Connor .

24. Herman Melville (1819-1891)

Painting of Herman Melville by Joseph Eaton.

Herman Melville was an American novelist, short story writer and poet known for his deep and dark storylines that explored themes of fate and free will. The New York City-born writer grew up in a family that faced financial difficulties after his father’s death, prompting him to work various jobs. Melville attended the Albany Academy but left to work as a clerk, a teacher and eventually a sailor on whaling ships. These experiences particularly influenced his literary work, including being a sailor, which provided him with maritime experiences that would inspire much of his writing. His complex approach to the art of plotting, his symbolic depth, and his exploration of existential undertones characterize Melville’s writing style. His ancestors were among the Scottish and Dutch settlers of New York who played significant roles in the American Revolution and the competitive commercial and political arenas of the emerging nation. His grandfather, Major Thomas Melville, participated in the Boston Tea Party in 1773 and later became an importer in New York. Some of Herman Melville’s most influential works include Moby-Dick , Bartleby, the Scrivener and Billy Budd, Sailor , which was published posthumously in 1924. Melville’s books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.”― Herman Melville .

23. Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)

Portrait of Leonardo da Vinci by Lattanzio Querena.

Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian polymath whose primary interests included painting, sculpture, music, mathematics and literature. While he is primarily known as an artist and scientist, his literary contributions, including his notebooks filled with observations, sketches and musings, have also had a significant impact on the evolution of art and science for centuries. Leonardo ’s notebooks, such as the Codex Atlanticus and the Codex Leicester , reveal his incisive insights into anatomy, engineering and hydraulics. His meticulous records and innovative ideas have inspired generations of scientists and artists. Some of Vinci’s written works are available in places like the Louvre, the Biblioteca Nacional de España, and Biblioteca Ambrosiana in Milan, to name a few, but Vinci is primarily known for creating The Last Supper and his magnum opus, Mona Lisa. Leonardo’s holistic approach to artistic design and expression embodied the Renaissance humanist ideal and influenced public thought through its enduring relevance in both the arts and sciences, making him a classic icon.

Famous quote: “It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.” ― Leonardo da Vinci .

22. Oscar Wilde (1854-1900)

Photo of Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde sitting down.

Irish poet Oscar Wilde was a playwright, lecturer and novelist whose writing can be defined as witty and flamboyant. The Dublin-born writer became renowned for notable works like The Picture of Dorian Gray , The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husban d. Wilde’s enduring popularity can be credited to his precise exploration of aestheticism and ability to harmonize humor with social critiques, which allowed him to expose Victorian society’s specific hypocrisies and superficialities. Wilde was also a well-respected person in the Aesthetic Movement, which advocated art for art’s sake and emphasized beauty and sensory experiences over moral or narrative content. Despite facing personal and legal challenges, including a highly publicized trial and imprisonment for his homosexuality, Wilde’s legacy is defined by his literary brilliance and his aphoristic wit. His essays, such as The Critic as Artist and The Soul of Man under Socialism , also showed his intellectual depth and advocacy for individuality and artistic freedom, much of which was inspired by his extensive education at Trinity College, Dublin, Magdalen College and Oxford. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ― Oscar Wilde .

21. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832)

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe circa 1800.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German poet, playwright, novelist, scientist, statesman, theatre director and critic who is famous for his work on Faust, a Tragedy, a dramatic two-part play that is considered one of the finest works of German literature. Goethe’s contributions to literature, philosophy and science have made him a focal figure in European intellectual history, and the Frankfurt-born luminary is considered one of the greatest German literary figures of the modern era. Beyond Faust , Goethe’s also gained acclaim for works such as The Sorrows of Young Werther , which is credited with launching the Sturm und Drang literary movement, and Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship , which became a center piece in the development of the Bildungsroman genre. Goethe’s poetry, including collections like West-östlicher Divan , showcases his wide-ranging palette and his engagement with diverse cultures and philosophies. His scientific work, particularly in the fields of botany and optics, demonstrated his holistic approach to understanding nature, culminating in influential texts like Metamorphosis of Plants and his theories on color, which he detailed in Theory of Colours . As a statesman, Goethe played an active role in the cultural and political life of Weimar, contributing to the Weimar Classicism movement alongside his friend Friedrich Schiller. His intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary approach made him a polymath, deeply influencing the Romantic movement and shaping modern thought in both the humanities and sciences. Goethe’s legacy endures not only in his literary masterpieces but also in his profound impact on the intellectual and cultural developments of his time. Goethe’s works can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Daring ideas are like chessmen moved forward. They may be beaten, but they may start a winning game.”― Johann Wolfgang von Goethe .

20. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882)

Colorized photograph of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, late 1800s.

Born in Portland, Maine, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was an American poet, professor and translator who is considered the most popular American poet in the 19th century. Longfellow’s early life and education gave him a solid foundation for his career and the intellectual acuity to compose the lyrical poetry that he did. After graduating from the Portland Academy, Longfellow studied at Bowdoin College, where he later became a professor upon his return from Europe, where he became proficient in Romance and Germanic languages. Longfellow was always skilled in translation. During his time in Europe, he honed his skills by immersing himself in various languages and literature that influenced his work. Some of his most famous works are The Song of Hiawatha, Evangeline , Tales of a Wayside Inn and Paul Revere’s Ride. Many of Longfellow’s poems were quite introspective, offering readers insight into human nature and all of its intricacies. As an educator, Longfellow was also a professor at Harvard College, where he influenced generations of students with his passion for literature and languages. Although Longfellow was primarily a poet, his impact on American literature extends beyond his poetry. He was instrumental in popularizing European literature in the United States through his translations of works like Dante’s Divine Comedy and he also wrote novels. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man's life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.”― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow .

19. Jules Verne (1828-1905)

Colorized photo of Jules Verne (1828-1905), French writer. (Photo by Boyer/Roger Viollet via Getty ... [+] Images)

France-born author Jules Verne is often regarded as one of the fathers of science fiction because of his sharp imagination and thorough research, which brought to life classics like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea , Journey to the Center of the Earth and Around the World in 80 Days . His stories often focus on adventure, exploration and the possibilities of science, which reflected the technological advancements of his era. Verne did not always aspire to be a writer, and his father initially wanted him to become a lawyer, but when those plans failed, he worked at the Paris stock exchange before becoming a writer. Verne’s thorough descriptions of submarines, space travel and airships were visionary and inspired a generation of many scientists and inventors who also had an interest in writing. Apart from writing novels, Verne was also a playwright and poet, and despite early rejections and financial struggles, Verne’s determination made him one of the best-selling authors of all time, with his works translated into many languages and adapted into films, TV shows and theater. Verne’s books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Science, my lad, is made up of mistakes, but they are mistakes which it is useful to make, because they lead little by little to the truth.”― Jules Verne .

18. William Blake (1757-1827)

William Blake

William Blake was a London-born author who is considered one of the best English writers and painters of all time. Some of his well-respected works include Poetical Sketches, S ongs of Innocence, Songs of Experience and Visions of the Daughters of Albion. Apart from his work as an author, Blake was an engraver, artist, poet and visionary whose art was informed by his spiritual worldviews, and although he was not a was a religious seeker, he believed in the movement. During his lifetime, Blake’s work was often underestimated because his views and poetic style seemed to be ahead of his time, and also because he was regarded as being somewhat mentally unwell, because of behavior that would be thought of as only slightly eccentric today. Regardless, Blake would later become appreciated for his creativity and the philosophical tangents that guided his work. Blake’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “It is easier to forgive an enemy than to forgive a friend.”― William Blake .

17. John Donne (1572-1631)

John Donne circa 1610.

John Donne was not just fascinating as a poet. His life was a colorful adventure that often seeped into his poems, which are considered landmark feats of language. Donne was born into a Roman Catholic family in London at a time when practicing Catholicism was illegal in England and despite of his impressive education at Oxford and Cambridge, he could not get a degree because, as a Catholic, he refused to take the Oath of allegiance to queen Elizabeth. Donne endured significant poverty for a major part of his lifetime and this led him to pour all of his energy and resources into writing about theology, canon law, anti-Catholic polemics and love poems. Donne’s poetic style, which had a lot of depth and intellectual rigor, was ahead of its time and not widely recognized during his life. In fact, his works Songs and Sonnets, Holy Sonnets and Anniversaries were all published after his death. His works are available at Canon Press .

Famous quote: “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine own were: any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bells tolls; it tolls for thee.”― John Donne .

16. Miguel de Cervantes (1547-1616)

Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra circa 1590.

Miguel de Cervantes was a Spanish novelist, playwright and poet best known for his classic Don Quixote , often considered the first modern novel in history. Many critics consider Cervantes to be a contemporary of Shakespeare and this title holds even more meaning since the literary giants died within a day of each other in April of 1616. Born in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, Cervantes’ life had all of the elements of a good movie: adventure, action, hardship and eventual success. He served as a soldier and was severely wounded at the Battle of Lepanto, losing the use of his left hand. In 1575, he was captured by Barbary pirates and spent five years as a slave in Algiers before being ransomed and returning to Spain where he would spend 25 years before finally striking gold with Don Quixote. His final novel Los trabajos de Persiles y Sigismunda , was published posthumously in 1616. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The truth may be stretched thin, but it never breaks, and it always surfaces above lies, as oil floats on water.”― Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra .

15. Elena Ferrante (1943-)

Some of the books of Elena Ferrante at Piu Libri Piu Liberi Publishing Fair on December 6, 2017 in ... [+] Rome.

Elena Ferrante is the pseudonym of the Italian author known for L’amica Geniale , Delia’s Elevator and the Neapolitan Novels, a four-part series of fiction that has made her a leading, yet mysterious voice in modern-day fictional writing. Despite the worldwide acclaim of her work, Ferrante’s true identity is still a mystery and this has added to the intrigue and speculation surrounding her. The mysterious New York Times bestselling author has communicated through her publisher stating that anonymity is important for her writing process, allowing her to focus solely on her work without public scrutiny. Apart from novels, Ferrante has published several essays and interviews where she discusses her approach to writing and her views on literature and society, providing rare insights into her creative mind. Her writing has showcased her psychological insight, complex characters and exploration of friendship, identity and the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Despite the speculation and attempts to uncover her identity, Ferrante has successfully maintained her privacy, letting her work speak for itself. In 2016, Time m agazine named Ferrante one of the 100 most influential people. Her books are available at Europa Editions .

Famous quote: “Words: with them you can do and undo as you please.”― Elena Ferrante .

14. Dante Alighieri (1265-1321)

Dante Alighieri circa early 14th Century.

Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet, politician and author who is regarded as one of the greatest poets of all time and his magnum opus, The Divine Comedy, was the primary piece that gained him a lot of popularity . A little-known fact about Dante is that he was heavily involved in the politics of Florence, which led to his exile. This exile influenced a lot of his writing, particularly in The Divine Comedy , in which he depicts his political enemies suffering in hell. Dante also wrote in the vernacular Italian rather than Latin, which helped standardize the Italian language and shape the cultural and literary landscape of Italy. Dante also authored several other important works such as De Monarchia , a treatise on secular and religious power, and Vita Nuova , which explores his idealized love for Beatrice Portinari and his poetic development. Alighieri’s writings also cover a wide range of topics, from ethics and politics to metaphysics. His writing also reflected a deep engagement with the philosophical and theological debates of his time, blending his political views with his spiritual and intellectual interests.​ His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of great moral crisis, maintain their neutrality.”― Dante Alighieri .

13. Plato (428-7 B.C.E - 348-7 B.C.E.)

Head of Plato circa B.C. 428 - B.C. 248.

Plato was a student of Socrates and the teacher of Aristotle, one of the most influential philosophers in Western history and a leader of Claslassical Antiquity. Aside from his contributions to philosophy, Plato founded the Academy in Athens, one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world, writing extensively on a variety of subjects, including politics, ethics and metaphysics. Most of his works often featured Socratic dialogues, a method of questioning designed to inspire critical thinking. His dialogues, such as The Republic , Phaedo and Symposium did not only examine political theory but also discussed the nature of reality, knowledge and the ideal state. Plato is often credited for the development of the Theory of Forms, a concept that proposes non-material abstract forms, or ideas, as the most accurate reality. This theory has had a lasting impact on subsequent philosophical thought. Also, his work Timaeus is one of the earliest detailed accounts of the natural world which combined philosophy and proto-science. Plato was heavily involved in politics extended beyond his theoretical writings because he intended to implement his philosophical ideas in the political realm, particularly in Syracuse, although these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful and led to his temporary imprisonment. His works are available at Hackett Publishing .

Famous quote: “We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.”― Plato .

12. Sophocles (496 BCE- 406)

Sophocles was a Colonus-born playwright who was one of the three ancient Greek tragedians whose plays have survived. Sophocles is best known for Ajax, Oedipus Rex and Antigone. He served as a general in the Athenian military and was active in public service, which influenced his writings on justice and themes of duty in his plays. Sophocles was immenseley talented, which led him to win reportedly winning 24 out of 30 dramatic competitions he entered. Sophocles was also a pioneer in stagecraft, introducing innovations such as the use of a third actor , scene painting, and stage machinery to create more elaborate and visually striking productions. His emphasis on character development and psychological depth marked a significant advancement in the art of storytelling and Greek theater. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The keenest sorrow is to recognize ourselves as the sole cause of all our adversities.”― Sophocles .

11. François Rabelais (Approximately 1483–94- 1553)

Poet Francois Rabelais. Canvas from a anonymous French painter. (Photo by Imagno/Getty Images)

François Rabelais was a French Renaissance writer and an avid traveler who is famed for his series of masterpieces called Gargantua and Pantagruel , which were published between 1532 and 1564. What many people don't know is that Rabelais was also a physician and a monk before he turned to writing. His works were often satirical and critical of the Church and society, which led to them being condemned by the Sorbonne, France’s prestigious institute for culture and academics. Rabelais’s background in medicine significantly influenced his writing, infusing his work with detailed anatomical and medical knowledge, often used to humorous effect. Rabelais was also known for his advocacy for education, echoing the intellectual spirit of the Renaissance. He promoted the idea that humans should be educated broadly in arts and sciences to develop fully. His works are available at Delphi Classics .

Famous quote: “there are more fools than wise men in all societies, and the larger party always gains the upper hand”― François Rabelais .

10. Geoffrey Chaucer (1343-1400)

Geoffrey Chaucer circa 1342-1400.

Geoffrey Chaucer is often hailed as the father of English literature, but a lesser-known fact is that Chaucer was also a diplomat and a civil servant, and this had a major impact on his life as a literary icon. Chaucer was born in London, but he traveled extensively across Europe, and like many writers, his travels influenced his literary works. His exposure to travel also inspired him to become fluent in several languages, including French, Italian and Latin, which added depth to his writing. Some of Chaucer’s notable works include The Canterbury Tales , which is considered one of the greatest poetic works in English. Chaucer’s career in public service was also impactful. As a civil servant, he held various positions, including courtier, diplomat and Member of Parliament, and many of his leadership roles gave him insight into the lives of ordinary people, much of which he vividly portrayed in his characters. His diplomatic missions took him to Italy, where he encountered the works of Dante, Petrarch and Boccaccio, profoundly influencing his own literary style and themes. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained”― Geoffrey Chaucer .

9. Virginia Woolf (1882-1941)

Virginia Woolf, circa 1902.

This list would be incomplete without Virginia Woolf. Woolf was born Adeline Virginia Stephen in London, and devoted an enormous part of her career to becoming a major figure in the modernist literary movement. Her stream-of-consciousness writing style as exemplified in iconic bodies of work like Mrs Dalloway and To the Lighthouse prove that Woolf was in a league of her own. The themes in her writing often included identity, time and the complexity of the human nature. Apart from novels, Woolf also explored essays, literary history, biographical writing and women’s issues. Woolf tragically died by suicide in 1941. Before her death, she founded her own publishing company, Hogarth Press, in 1917, but her work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “A woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction.” — Virginia Woolf .

8. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881)

Fyodor Dostoevsky, circa 1865.

Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky, born in Moscow, had an approach to writing that stood out for its psychological penetration and exploration of darker themes. The short story expert had a list of impressive and critically acclaimed works, including Crime and Punishment , The Brothers Karamazov, The Possessed and The Idiot, all of which explored the human soul and moral dilemmas. Dostoevsky suffered from epilepsy throughout his life, which he uses as a source of inspiration for his writing by frequently depicting characters with epilepsy, and exploring the associated mental and emotional struggles that came with the condition. Outside of fiction, Dostoevsky often wrote extensiovely in letters and diaries about the anxiety that his epileptic seizures caused. After suffering successive seizures that resulted in three pulmonary hemorrhages, Dostoevsky passed away in 1881. During his lifetime as a writer, his writing style employed the use of gothic elements, chaotic storytelling and freeform storytelling. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Above all, don't lie to yourself. The man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to a point that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him, and so loses all respect for himself and for others. And having no respect, he ceases to love.” — Fyodor Dostoevsky .

7. Charles Dickens (1812-1870)

Illustration of British novelist Charles Dickens sitting in his study in Gads Hill near Rochester, ... [+] Kent, England, circa 1860.

After his interest in theater waned, Charles Dickens pivoted careers and chose to become a writer. It would be a decision that would earn him recognition as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era. Known for his vivid characters and memorable depictions of social class, injustice and hierarchy, the Portsmouth, England-born journalist’s ability to create a broad array of characters is nothing like any other writer on this list. Some classics that Dickens wrote include A Tale of Two Cities , Great Expectations and the world-renowned Oliver Twist . His works often highlighted the plight of the poor and critiqued the class system. Dickens also wrote plays and engaged in journalism and travel writing. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” — Charles Dickens .

6. Jane Austen (1775-1817)

Illustrated portrait of Jane Austen.

Jane Austen, born in Steventon, England, is famous not just for her iconic books Pride and Prejudice , Emma and Sense and Sensibility ; she was also one of the trailblazers of the British novel. Her approach to the development of modern characters and her ability to make ordinary people extraordinary are what made her writing so popular and widely read. Austen’s contributions were not just to British writing alone but to the entire global landscape of emerging writers, past and present. Her writing offered doses of wit and acute commentary on societal issues like class and social status. Austen’s writing has been regarded as fundamentally grounded in burlesque, parody and free indirect speech. Her work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “There are few people whom I really love, and still fewer of whom I think well. The more I see of the world, the more am I dissatisfied with it; and every day confirms my belief of the inconsistency of all human characters, and of the little dependence that can be placed on the appearance of merit or sense.” — Jane Austen.

5. Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961)

Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway , born in Oak Park, Illinois, was a prolific figure in American literature and a brilliant writer, hunter, sailor, former spy and explorer. He became known for his larger-than-life persona and distinctive writing style, which was marked by economical prose. Hemingway’s literary career was as adventurous as his personal life, and his works have always been a topic of discussion in literary circles and popular culture. Hemingway’s personal life, which influenced his writing, was as dramatic as his fiction. As an avid adventurer, he traveled extensively, engaging in big-game hunting in Africa, bullfighting in Spain and deep-sea fishing in the Caribbean. Some of his most notable works include For Whom the Bell Tolls, A Farewell to Arms and The Old Man and the Sea , which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1953. Although he is best known for his fiction and non-fiction novels and short stories, he also wrote in other genres. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.” — Ernest Hemingway .

4. Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910)

Writer Leo Tolstoy sitting at desk in his study.

Leo Tolstoy’s strength as a writer came alive through his exploration of philosophical themes and analysis. Born in Yasnaya Polyana, Russia, Tolstoy is best known for his iconic novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina . Most of his writing showcases his mastery of realistic fiction and ability to create out-of-the-box plots. As a well-respected figure in Russian literature, Tolstoy’s literary influence extends beyond his novels to his essays on religion, non-violence and education. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Love is life. All, everything that I understand, I understand only because I love. Everything is, everything exists, only because I love. Everything is united by it alone. Love is God, and to die means that I, a particle of love, shall return to the general and eternal source.” — Leo Tolstoy .

3. Virgil (70 BCE- 19 BCE)

Detail of a mosaic of Virgil.

Virgil, born Publius Vergilius Maro, is known as one of the most well-respected poets of ancient Rome. Despite his humble beginnings, Virgil received an excellent education in Cremona, Milan, and finally Rome, where he studied rhetoric, medicine and astronomy before focusing on philosophy and poetry. Virgil is renowned as one of ancient Rome's greatest poets and his most notable works include The Eclogues , The Georgics and The Aeneid , which stands out as a monumental epic that weaves together the journey of the Trojan hero Aeneas with themes of fate, duty and heroism, ultimately glorifying Rome and Emperor Augustus. Despite his illustrious career, Virgil struggled with health issues and led a reclusive life. His philosophical leanings towards Epicureanism subtly influenced his literary themes. Virgil died before he could complete The Aeneid to his satisfaction and requested that the work be destroyed on his deathbed, a wish that Augustus famously overruled. Virgil's influence endured through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, which made his legacy even stronger as an oundational figure in Western literature​. Virgil’s works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “ Audaces fortuna iuvat (latin)- Fortune favors the bold.”― Virgil .

2. Homer (Around 8th century BC)

A colorized engraving of Homer with eyes superimposed.

Homer, the quintessential ancient Greek poet, is credited with composing The Iliad and The Odyssey , two legendary poems that are foundational works of ancient Greek literature and the Western literary tradition. The Iliad focuses on a quarrel between King Agamemnon and the warrior Achilles during the last year of the Trojan War, emphasizing themes of heroism, glory and the wrath of Achilles. The Odyssey follows the challenging ten-year journey of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, as he strives to return home after the fall of Troy. A major part of Homer’s mystique lies in the fact that very little is known about the Greek author’s life and most of his background is shrouded in mystique and mystery, it is generally believed he lived around the 8th or 9th century B.C. Multiple cities, including Smyrna, Chios and Ios, claim to be Homer’s birthplace, but that has been speculative. Homer is also one of the most influential authors in the widest sense, because of the two epics that he created that provided the basis of Greek education and culture throughout the Classical age. Homer’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Out of sight,out of mind”― Homer .

1. William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

Colorized illustration (after a John Cochran print) of English playwright William Shakespeare.

There are a select few names that remain ever-present in history and never fade into the background. Names like Jesus Christ, The Beatles and Michael Jackson have a permanent presence on the world’s collective memory, and William Shakespeare falls into that timeless category as well. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, is often regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s pre-eminent dramatist. His works include 38 plays, 154 sonnets and several narrative poems, all of which have had a permanent impact on literature and theater globally. Shakespeare’s repertoire does not only conform to a specific era, but has an such as enduring appeal that is relevant in works like Hamlet , Romeo and Juliet , Othello , King Lear and Macbeth continue to be performed and studied in institutions worldwide. Although Shakespeare’s early works were mainly comedies and histories, he is best known for his tragedies, which were written between 1601 and 1608 and explored complex themes of betrayal, love, ambition and the supernatural. His last plays, often categorized as romances or tragicomedies, include The Tempest , The Winter’s Tale and Cymbeline . A lesser-known fact about Shakespeare is that he was also a businessman and a shareholder in the Globe Theatre. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “We know what we are, but not what we may be.”― William Shakespeare .

Bottom Line

This list highlights 101 wordsmoths across history, eras and time, from William Shakespeare and Jane Austen to George Orwell and GarcĂ­a MĂĄrquez. It celebrates their undeniable and untainted contributions to human thought, covering various genres and reminding readers not just of their ageless legacies, but their quintessential impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who are top famous romance novelists.

Jane Austen is one of the most well-respected romance novelists , celebrated for her keen social commentary and timeless love stories. Austen's works are renowned for their insight into  romantic relationships and the societal norms of 19th-century England.

Danielle Steel is a best-selling author in the romance genre, with over 190 books to her name. Steel's ability to market stories that are relatable and compelling has made her a modern-day fan-favorite in the genre.

Who Are Notable Female Authors?

Toni Morrison is a Nobel Prize-winning author known for her impactful writings which explore race and impact. Her novels, such as Beloved and The Bluest Eye , explore the African American experience with depth and serious reflection.

Virginia Woolf is a key figure in modernist literature, known for her innovative narrative techniques and exploration of the inner lives of her characters. Her seminal works, including Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse , have influenced generations of writers and readers. 

Who Are Notable Black Authors?

Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist and civil rights activist who autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings provided a seminal text into the exploration of identity, racism and resilience. Angelou's lyrical prose and powerful storytelling have left an incredible mark on literature and continue to inspire readers all over the world.

James Baldwin  was an influential writer and social critic whose writings honestly addressed the complex themes of race, sexuality and identity. His novels, which include Go Tell It on the Mountain and Giovanni's Room are celebrated for their eloquence and emotional depth. 

Who Are The Best 20th Century Novelists?

F. Scott Fitzgerald is best known for his novel The Great Gatsby , an important 20th century story about the American Dream gone awry. Fitzgerald's fictional, yet candid review of wealth, love and social change in the Jazz Age has made him a defining voice of 20th-century American literature.

George Orwell , author of 1984 and Animal Farm , is known for his acute critiques of totalitarianism and his honest criticism of social justice issues. Orwell's works are noted for their clarity, wit and relevance, making him one of the most important writers of the 20th century.

Who Are The Best 19th Century Novelists?

Charles Dickens is one of the most recognized writers of the 19th century who was known for his vivid characters and social commentary. Stories like A Tale of Two Cities , Great Expectations and Oliver Twist highlight Dickens' ability to combine compelling narratives with critiques of Victorian society.

Leo Tolstoy , the Russian novelist, is celebrated for his epic works War and Peace and Anna Karenina . Tolstoy's exploration of human experience, history, and morality in his novels has made him a cornerstone of world literature.

  • Editorial Standards
  • Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

  • False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
  • Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
  • Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
  • Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

  • Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
  • Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
  • Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
  • Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

  • Stay on topic and share your insights
  • Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
  • ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
  • Protect your community.
  • Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

How a disillusioned Nigerian man’s trek to Europe becomes a test of faith and ambition

Photo of Samuel Kolawole

  • Copy Link URL Copied!

Book Review

The Road to the Salt Sea

By Samuel Kọ́lĂĄwọlĂ© Amistad: 304 pages, $28.99 If you buy books linked on our site, The Times may earn a commission from Bookshop.org , whose fees support independent bookstores.

Countless Christian songs exalt the ableness of God, but the tune that makes up my childhood soundtrack is the one my mother, a gospel guitarist, would sing when her faith hit the rockiest of shores: “If you’ve tried everything and everything failed 
You know God is able 
 try Jesus.”

Her melodies floated back to me as I read Samuel Kọ́lĂĄwọlé’s debut novel “The Road to the Salt Sea,” which follows the story of Able God, an ambitious Nigerian man disillusioned with his stagnant life. He gets drawn into a crime that sends him into the clutches of a charismatic religious leader promising impoverished Lagos residents better-paying jobs in Italy. As Able God and his fellow migrants embark on this journey, there is a foreboding sense that what lies ahead might be even more treacherous than the realities they’re leaving behind. This harrowing migration story wrestles with themes of family pressure, personal ambition, modern-day slavery, religion and that ever-prevailing Western insistence on positive manifestation — a self-help philosophy that can feel disconnected from the horrors of war and other calamities.

With a close third-person narrator, the book opens like a thriller — with Able God hiding and nursing a wound — before the narrative quickly flashes back to the events leading up to this fateful moment. At 32, the college-educated Able God is not living the life his mother had imagined for him when she bestowed him with such an aspirational name. He’s stuck in a dead-end job at a luxury hotel in Lagos, where the glass walls, gleaming chandeliers and vast lobby stand in stark contrast to his one-room apartment devoid of electricity.

A deeply religious woman who weaves her Yoruba traditions and Christian faith, Able God’s mother rebukes him: “Do you want to serve others for the rest of your life?”

While he has long strayed from his religious upbringing, Able God is just as idealistic as his mother; he’s simply bound to another form of faith: self-help books whose affirmational phrases he repeats like proverbs.

Determined to “think” his way into manifesting the life he fantasizes about (world-renowned chess player or wealthy business magnate), every day he flashes his “hundred-watt toothpaste-commercial” smile at hotel guests, affluent people he believes could help catapult him into a better future. But Able God also resents the way some of the travelers treat hotel workers and other working-class Lagos residents. “How had he acquired his wealth?” Able God wonders about a guest named Dr. Badero. “He was sure he’d built his wealth on the blood, sweat and toil of the powerless.”

Able God and his co-workers witness all manner of outlandish behavior from privileged guests, but when Dr. Badero turns violent against a sex worker who lives in Able God’s neighborhood, Able God cannot turn a blind eye. “He had known men like Dr. Badero all his life, men who dominated women — and who hurt them. Men who thought sexual conquest was a God-given right.” Such an assessment could be lifted from these fictional pages and plopped into recent news recounting the actions of powerful men.

Obsessed with saving the woman he believes is in danger, Able God becomes embroiled in a crime from which no affirmations or prayer can rescue him. A religious leader hawking the migration to Italy promises the trip is “free” and can be paid later with their jobs. This snake-oil salesman’s name is Ben Ten (after the namesake TV series’ cartoon character with the capacity to morph into different aliens).

As he endures an increasingly difficult trip, Able God leans on self-help mantras the more he senses his control over his destiny slipping away. “Enjoy the journey on the way to your destination,” he recalls. Yet not only is this journey not enjoyable — it threatens the lives of the migrants as they cross border checkpoints stocked with corrupt soldiers, trudge through the unforgiving Sahara, face starvation and thirst and enter a part of Libya still reeling from civil war. “We are close to the Promised Land,” Ben Ten tells them after weeks of traveling, but following his announcement comes a dramatic turning point that plummets the migrants into human trafficking, slavery and even graver violence.

In his essay collection, “How to Write About Africa,” the late Kenyan author and journalist Binyavanga Wainaina wrote satirically about journalists and authors who treat one of the world’s most diverse continents as though it were a monolith. “Treat Africa as if it were one country,” he advised, tongue-in-cheek. “It is hot and dusty with rolling grasslands and huge herds of animals and tall, thin people who are starving. 
 Don’t get bogged down with precise descriptions.”

In “The Road to the Salt Sea,” you’ll find starvation, power dynamics inherent in class systems, the aftereffects of war, but the novel is proof that when a writer dares to broach such themes, stereotypes can be dismantled through specificity, through painting characters as full beings. With his attention to detail and rich crafting of an interior life for Able God, Kọ́lĂĄwọlĂ© offers us a masterclass in sensory writing (engaging the five senses in ways that repulse and delight). He subtly weaves history into his narrative and balances his main character’s inner life with the chaos of the external world. “These children lacked guardians and lived in poverty, but they also had freedom.”

In an interview with the Hopkins Review, Kọ́lĂĄwọlĂ©, who was born and raised in Ibadan, about 80 miles north of Lagos, says his greatest wish is for his writing “to touch the heart of my reader.” In “The Road to the Salt Sea,” he grabs us by the throat, gut and heart. At times, the suspense is all-engrossing; at other times, one wrenching scene after another overwhelms. Yet the novel reminds us that even in calamitous times, the search for meaning and purpose continues, despite the ways in which mantras might fall short, biblical messages might confound and false prophets and preachers peddle desperate and vulnerable people.

During a stop in Niger, Able God wanders upon a place of worship “reduced to ashes” in what he believes was the result of religious riots. “Could God inhabit something so charred and dilapidated?” he wonders. Able God is no saint, but his fight for physical survival, and even his ability to hold on to a shard of optimism in the face of atrocities, is testament to the tenacity of the human spirit.

Cassandra Lane is author of a memoir, “We Are Bridges,” editor-in-chief of L.A. Parent and a contributor to the anthology “Writing the Golden State: The New Literary Terrain of California.”

More to Read

Los Angeles, CA - April 23: Akwaeke Emezi, author of "Bitter," and "The Death of Vivek Oji," which was a finalist for the Dylan Thomas Prize, the Los Angeles Times Book Prize and the PEN/Jean Stein Award is photographed in the L.A. Times Festival of Books photo studio, at USC, in Los Angeles, CA, Saturday, April 23, 2022. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Akwaeke Emezi’s novel ‘Little Rot’ is a thrilling but difficult descent into darkness

June 17, 2024

M.K. Asante

How rap and writing help heal a family’s old wounds

May 17, 2024

Sarah McCammon, credit Kara Frame

In ‘The Exvangelicals,’ Sarah McCammon tells the tale of losing her religion

March 20, 2024

A cure for the common opinion

Get thought-provoking perspectives with our weekly newsletter.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Albert M. Camarillo, author of "Compton in My Soul."

A memoir about Chicano studies, intertwined with a history of Compton

June 28, 2024

Image of author Cody Delistraty

Would you want a chatbot to help you through grief?

June 24, 2024

FILE - Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, holds his face mask in his hands as he attends a House Committee on Appropriations subcommittee hearing on about the budget request for the National Institutes of Health, May 11, 2022, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, says he plans to retire by the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January 2025. Fauci, 81, became director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in 1984 and has advised seven presidents. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

Column: Anthony Fauci has a right to savage Trump. His memoir takes a different and telling approach

June 23, 2024

Oct. 6, 1994: Two hundred UCLA students march in protest of prop 187. Protests were held at about 20 other college and university campuses in California.

This misunderstanding of the Latino vote may be biggest blind spot in American politics

June 22, 2024

IMAGES

  1. The Best Essay about My Ambitions

    write an essay on my future ambition

  2. My Ambition in Life Essay

    write an essay on my future ambition

  3. Essay on My Ambition in English|30 lines on My Ambition|Essay on My Ambition 10 lines in English

    write an essay on my future ambition

  4. đŸŒ± My ambition in life essay in english. My Ambition In Life Essay In

    write an essay on my future ambition

  5. My Ambition in Life Essay Example

    write an essay on my future ambition

  6. 🐈 Essay about your future. My Future Ambition, Essay Sample. 2022-10-27

    write an essay on my future ambition

VIDEO

  1. My Ambition In Life Essay

  2. Essay on my aim in life to become a cricketer. ESSAY ON MY AIM IN LIFE

  3. Short Essay On My Ambition To Become a Teacher|| My aim in life| My dream #teacher #study

  4. My future ambition is to have Plenty moneyplentytime .#familytime#selfcare#Godtime#onlinemoney#time

  5. Out of Business by R.K .Narayan

  6. Write an essay your aim in life in english || Aim of my life essay

COMMENTS

  1. My Future Ambition (Essay Sample)

    Short Essay Sample On My Future Ambition - 300 Word Short Custom Essay. People always ask kids and teens about what they want to become in the future once they grow up. At some time in life, we all have wondered about our future ambitions in life. What we want to achieve or become is mostly influenced by the people and things that surround us.

  2. My Ambition Essay for Students and Children

    Q.1 How do ambitions help people? A.1 Ambitions helps people in focusing their mind to achieve a set goal. Furthermore, it trains them to be better in achieving their ambition. Q.2 Why must one have an ambition? A.2 We all must have at least one ambition to achieve in life.

  3. 100 Words Essay on My Ambition

    Students are often asked to write an essay on My Ambition in their schools and colleges. And if you're also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic. ... This ambition guides my choices and actions, propelling me towards a future where I can actualize my potential and make a meaningful impact ...

  4. Personal Statement Ambition: [Essay Example], 853 words

    Personal Statement Ambition. Ambition is a driving force that propels individuals to strive for success and achieve their goals, yet it is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human nature. From a young age, ambition shapes our aspirations and guides our actions, influencing the paths we choose to pursue in life.

  5. Essay On My Ambition in 300 Words

    Quotes On Ambitions in Life. Here are some popular quotes on ambitions in life. They will help you to know your ambitions in life in a better way. 'Ambition is enthusiasm with a purpose.'. - Frank Tyger. 'The only limit to your impact is your imagination and commitment.'. - Tony Robbins. 'Ambition is the path to success.

  6. My Ambition Essay for Students in English

    The ambition in anybody's life would depend on the interests and choices of the person. My ambition is to become a fitness guide in the future. Though my parents feel that it is quite an unusual choice for me, they are very encouraging about it. My parents are well aware of my interest in outdoor sports, as well as in yoga and Karate.

  7. How do I write a college essay about my future goals?

    Finally, discuss your future goals in a way that ties everything together and shows the admissions committee how you plan to make a positive impact in the world. Remember to be authentic and genuine in your writing, and don't be afraid to show some vulnerability. Good luck with your essay! CollegeVine's Q&A seeks to offer informed ...

  8. Essay on My Future Goals In Life

    My last goal is to keep learning new things all my life. I want to read lots of books and maybe even travel to different countries to learn about other cultures. The world is full of interesting things, and I want to know as much as I can. In conclusion, my future goals are to become a teacher, help my community, stay healthy, and keep learning.

  9. Essay about Ambition

    Now, let's talk about the structure of an ambition essay. Usually, it has a 5-paragraphs structure, as any other essay: Introduction (1 paragraph): background information and a thesis statement. Main body (3 paragraphs): arguments and evidence, each argument takes one paragraph. Conclusion (1 paragraph): summary of your arguments.

  10. Essay on My Ambition 500+ Words

    Essay on My Ambition 500+ Words. Ambition is like a spark that ignites the fire within us. It's that inner drive that propels us to achieve our dreams and reach for the stars. In this essay, we will explore the significance of having ambition in our lives and how it can shape our future.

  11. Ambition Essay: Topics, Tips, & Ambition Examples

    📰 Ambition Essay: 4-Step Writing Guide. Unfortunately, this is not enough to get the highest grade on ambition essays. You also have to take the following steps: Decide on the perspective to consider ambition from It is the starting point in preparing essays on ambition. A good thesis statement should intrigue, involve, and attract.

  12. Brilliant Short Essay on My Ambition (100, 130, 200 Words)

    Short Essay on My Ambition #1. My ambition in life is to become a physician and fulfil a great need in my village. Despite boasting many good things, my village lacks qualified doctors, forcing sick individuals to seek treatment from untrained individuals. This results in many deaths each year due to a lack of proper medical attention.

  13. Essay on Ambition

    250 Words Essay on Ambition Understanding Ambition. Ambition is a strong wish to achieve something. Every person has different ambitions in life. Some might want to be a doctor, an engineer, or a teacher, while others might want to be a singer, an actor, or a sports person. Ambition gives us a goal in life and helps us strive towards it.

  14. How To Write An Essay On 'My Ambition In Life' For Children

    Here is a sample essay in English on 'My Ambition Is To Become A Doctor' for kids: ADVERTISEMENTS. My life's ambition is to become a good doctor. There are many reasons why I want to become a doctor. I admire doctors because they heal sick people and make them healthy. They work tirelessly to serve humankind.

  15. Essay on My Aim in Life in 100, 200, 300 & 500 Words

    Essay on My Aim in Life in 100 words. The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don't have an aim in our life, we won't know where to reach. So if you want to be successful and do something in your life then ...

  16. Essay on My Ambition

    1) Ambition is a way to reach your dreams. 2) Everyone has some ambition in their life and I aim to become a doctor. 3) My aim is to help everyone by becoming a doctor. 4) A doctor is considered as the second form of God. 5) A successful doctor treats everyone the same and helps them with their problems.

  17. My Aim in Life Essay For Students: 100, 200 & 500 Words Essay

    Essay on My Aim in Life in 100 words. My aim in life is to become a doctor. I want to serve humanity by providing medical care to those in need. Healing the sick and alleviating their suffering is my passion. I aspire to make a positive impact on society and contribute to the well-being of others. Becoming a doctor requires dedication, hard ...

  18. Essay on My Ambition of Life ( 100, 200 & 500 Words )

    Essay on My Ambition of Life 500 Words -. 1. Introduction -. It's the ambition of life that takes people to the top. If a person has no ambition in life, perhaps he/she cannot prove himself/herself as the best in front of the world. People make different plans to fulfill their ambitions.

  19. Essay On My Ambition In Life To Become A Doctor

    Ans: Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree is required to get into medical school. 
. Step 2: Take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) 
. Step 3: Earn a Medical Degree. 
. Step 4: Complete a Residency Program. 
. Step 5: Obtain Licensure. 
. Step 6: Get Certified to Advance Career. Q4.

  20. My Future Career: Why I Choose to Be a Doctor

    To discuss my future career, in this essay I'm going to describe how I've decided to become a doctor and why this career fits me perfectly. Since I was a young, my mother kept motivating and encouraging me to become a doctor. This was her dream. By the time, this dream was not only my mother's dream, it became my dream too.

  21. My Future Goals as a Doctor [Free Essay Sample], 500 words

    My future as a doctor is driven by a genuine passion for healing, a desire to be a positive influence, and a love of continuous learning. By building relationships, driving progress, advocating for health, embracing diversity, and overcoming adversity, I strive to realize my aspirations and make a significant contribution to the field of ...

  22. My Ambition to Be an Entrepreneur: [Essay Example], 696 words

    In conclusion, my ambition to be an entrepreneur is a culmination of aspirations, values, and a deep-rooted desire to create, innovate, and contribute. The path ahead is uncharted, filled with opportunities, challenges, and a myriad of experiences waiting to unfold. From embracing uncertainty to leveraging technology, from crafting innovative ...

  23. Essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher

    250 Words Essay on My Ambition in Life to Become a Teacher Introduction. My ambition in life is to become a teacher, a noble profession that shapes the character, caliber, and future of an individual. The urge to impart knowledge, to mold young minds, and to contribute to society fuels this ambition. The Power of Education

  24. 101 Famous Authors And Greatest Writers Of All Time

    These experiences influenced his writing, adding depth to his portrayal of human emotions and relationships and during his time serving, Salinger wrote more than 20 short stories, which helped him ...

  25. A Nigerian man's trek to Europe becomes a test of faith and ambition

    In his essay collection, "How to Write About Africa," the late Kenyan author and journalist Binyavanga Wainaina wrote satirically about journalists and authors who treat one of the world's ...