Henry James OM (1843-1916, age 72). An American British author. He is regarded as a key transitional figure between literary realism and literary modernism, and is considered by many to be among the greatest novelists in the English language. Born in New York City, he died in London.
“OM” stands for Order of Merit, awarded to him by the sovereign.
James was a self-confident gay individual who was cautiously attracted to, and frequently fell in love with, younger men and boys. In his later years he was thought to be even more intimate. Given the times, he was closeted.