From Drama Critic to Dramatist: I

Abstract

From Frank Harris, Contemporary Portraits, 4 vols (London: Methuen, 1915–24) ii, 3–8. Frank Harris (1856–1931), journalist, author and adventurer, had edited the Evening News and the Fortnightly Review before he bought the Saturday Review in September 1894. He set about improving its quality and circulation by engaging the best contributors he knew and for four years made it the most brilliant weekly in London. Shaw, who had begun his weekly contributions in January 1895, gave notice in April 1895 of his intention to retire at the end of the season, but was forced by ill-health to hand over to Max Beerbohm in May. Harris sold the Review later that year. Shaw remained appreciative of the opportunity Harris had given him and never cast him off during the long years of his decline.