William Gaddis was an American novelist born on December 29, 1922, in New York City. He is best known for his complex and innovative writing style, which often explores themes of technology, capitalism, and the nature of communication. His most famous works include The Recognitions and JR, both of which received critical acclaim and contributed to his reputation as a significant figure in postmodern literature. Gaddis's writing is characterized by long, intricate sentences and a lack of traditional narrative structure. He often employed multiple voices and perspectives, reflecting the fragmented nature of modern life. Throughout his career, Gaddis received several awards, including the National Book Award for JR in 1976, solidifying his place in American literary history.