Jan Morris by Sara Wheeler review – masterly account of a flawed figure
Why it matters: The review offers a nuanced look at a significant cultural figure, challenging simplistic narratives of her legacy.
- Jan Morris is depicted as a "brilliant, prolific and deeply selfish" figure in Sara Wheeler's review.
- Morris's stipulations for her National Portrait Gallery painting included the presence of her Norwegian forest cat, Ibsen, and one of her Corgis.
- Sara Wheeler's review offers a "masterly account" of Morris, acknowledging her groundbreaking role as a trans trailblazer and adventurer.
Sara Wheeler's review of Jan Morris portrays the journalistic adventurer and trans trailblazer as a brilliant and prolific writer, yet also deeply selfish. The account highlights Morris's significant contributions while not shying away from her personal complexities, including her unique demands for a National Portrait Gallery sitting.
