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Even in love, William remained conflicted. After falling for Martha Foley, a young woman he met while imprisoned for leading an anti-war demonstration, he retreated again into isolation when she rebuffed him. His unreciprocated affection haunted him, reinforcing the perception that his brilliance was overshadowed by his emotional fragility.
The Quiet Death of a Prodigy
As the years wore on, William's health declined. Living a life defined by neglectful routines and the absence of self-care, he ultimately suffered a massive stroke on July 13, 1944, and died shortly after. He was only 46. His life and legacy raise important questions about the nature of talent, success, and the social systems in place that neither nurture nor sustain such extraordinary individuals.