Melvin Dixon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Melvin Dixon
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | May 29, 1950 Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.
|
| Died | October 26, 1992 (aged 42) Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.
|
| Alma mater | Wesleyan University Brown University |
| Occupation | Academic |
| Employer | Queens College |
| Partner(s) | Richard Horovitz |
Melvin Dixon (May 29, 1950 – October 26, 1992) was an American professor, author, poet, and translator. He wrote many books and poems. His work often explored the lives and experiences of Black people.
Contents
Melvin Dixon: A Life in Literature
Early Life and Education
Melvin Dixon was born in Stamford, Connecticut, on May 29, 1950. He was a very good student.
He earned his first college degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), from Wesleyan University in 1971. Later, he earned his advanced degree, a PhD, from Brown University in 1975.
His Career as a Writer and Professor
Melvin Dixon became a Professor of Literature at Queens College. He taught there from 1980 until 1992. He was also a talented writer.
He wrote several important books during his career. His work included novels, poetry, and translations.
Awards and Recognition
Melvin Dixon's books won several awards. In 1989, his novel Trouble the Water received the Charles H. and N. Mildred Nilon Excellence in Minority Fiction Award. This award recognized his excellent writing about minority experiences.
Another one of his novels, Vanishing Rooms, also won an award. It received a Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBT Literature in 1992. This award celebrates books that explore themes related to the LGBT community.
Later Life and Legacy
Melvin Dixon passed away on October 26, 1992, in his hometown of Stamford, Connecticut. He died from health problems related to AIDS. He had been dealing with this illness since 1989.
His partner, Richard Horovitz, had passed away one year before him. Melvin Dixon's writings continue to be important for understanding Black experiences and literature.
