H.P. Lovecraft

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Howard Phillips Lovecraft was a prolific writer of weird, science, fantasy, and horror fiction. His work, often characterized by existential dread and ancient, unknowable entities, has profoundly influenced countless authors and filmmakers. Less celebrated, however, were his views on just about everyone who wasn't a WASP from New England, making him a complicated figure for modern appreciation.

Lovecraft's ancestry was thoroughly Anglo-Saxon, with roots tracing back to early colonial settlers. There isn't a whisper of Jewish heritage in his family tree, which is probably a good thing, considering his documented xenophobia, which extended to Jews, among many, many others.

From a "Kvell-worthiness" perspective, Lovecraft offers little for the Jewish community. His significant literary contributions are undeniable, shaping genres and inspiring generations of artists. However, these achievements are profoundly overshadowed by his virulent racism and antisemitism, which are thoroughly documented in his letters and writings. It’s hard to kvell over someone who would likely have loathed you.