Ken & Ignatius

John Kennedy Toole (December 17, 1937 – March 26, 1969)

Googled Mr. JKT today. It turns out his life does mirror Ignatius'. JKT, aka Ken to his friends, like his character, lived in New Orleans, Lousiana, was sheltered by his mom, earned an M.A. degree, worked in a clothing plant, was an aspiring writer, and speculated as gay.

It's likely people from New Orleans know Ignatius because A Confederacy of Dunces is hailed for its vibrant post-WWII portrayal of New Orleans. Or maybe they know of him from the bronze statue at 800 Iberville Street in New Orleans.

Thirsty for details?

Ken: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Kennedy_Toole
ACoD: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignatius_Reilly
Ignatius statue & book setting pics: http://www2.tltc.ttu.edu/qualin/ignatius/