Conan Art

One hundred and three years ago today, Robert E. Howard was born. Over the course of the next 30 years, Howard would punch out some of the most compelling, action-packed, and unquestionably inspirational stories ever written. While most people are largely familiar with his fantasy works detailing the adventures of Conan (either directly, or indirectly), Howard of course also dabbled in Westerns, boxing stories, comedies, poetry, and more.

I’m not here to give you a biography of the man though… far from it. There are  much more accomplished writers better suited to that task, such as Mark Finn, who wrote an exceptional Robert E. Howard biography, which any fan of fantasy should certainly read.

No, I’m just here to say thanks to Howard, who created characters and settings that have provided inspiration to me and a place for my mind to wonder for over two-and-a-half decades.

I am reminded today of a great line from Beyond the Black River:

“He was a man,” said Conan. “I drink to his shade…”

Raise a glass to Howard then, and drink with me to honor the man that gives us all a gift every time we take the opportunity to crack open a book and read one of his yarns.

Happy birthday Bob.