How Fanny Stevenson Inspired Robert Louis Stevenson to Write

Fanny Stevenson is often overlooked as a driving force behind the literary career of Robert Louis Stevenson. However, without her influence and care, Stevenson’s writing may have never reached its full potential.

A Chance Encounter

In 1876, Fanny Vandegrift Osbourne, an American woman 11 years older than Stevenson, met the young writer in a literary salon in Paris. At the time, Stevenson was a struggling writer, financially dependent on his parents and constantly at odds with them over his lifestyle choices. Fanny, on the other hand, was a mother and wife who had followed her husband to mining camps in the West, where he tried to strike it rich.

Despite their differences, the two fell deeply in love, and Fanny became Stevenson’s muse and caretaker. Without her care, Stevenson may have died before they could be married in San Francisco in 1880.

A Literary Partnership

Fanny’s influence on Stevenson’s writing was immense. She encouraged him to take risks and push himself to write more, and her own experiences and insights often found their way into his work. As Stevenson’s literary career took off, Fanny was always by his side, supporting and guiding him.

A Lasting Legacy

Stevenson’s writing has had a lasting impact on literature, and it is clear that Fanny played a significant role in his success. Her influence can be seen in many of his works, including Treasure Island, Kidnapped, and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Fanny Stevenson, the woman behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s success

A Wilder Shore

Camille Peri’s book, A Wilder Shore: The Romantic Odyssey of Fanny and Robert Louis Stevenson, provides a detailed account of the couple’s life and literary partnership. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and works of Robert Louis Stevenson.

Robert Louis Stevenson, the famous author

Conclusion

Fanny Stevenson’s influence on Robert Louis Stevenson’s writing is undeniable. Her care, support, and encouragement helped him to become the great author he is known as today. Without her, his writing may have never reached its full potential, and the literary world would be poorer for it.