Writer Put Issues On "Front Page' Focus On Goals: Determination helped make Ben Hecht one of the greats.(LEADERS & SUCCESS)

Byline: KATHRYN LINDERMAN

There was no question about it: If Ben Hecht couldn't follow his passion for writing, he wasn't going to do anything.

"I was born to write," he often said, "and write I will."

His focus helped Hecht (1894-1964) become a successful journalist, playwright and novelist, with 35 books to his credit. He also was a screenwriter, director and producer known as the "Shakespeare of Hollywood" who received screen credits for some 70 films and screenplays. Among his plays and films were the 20th century classics "The Front Page" (also called "His Girl Friday"), "All He Ever Loved" and "Some Like It Hot."

Born in New York City, Hecht was the son of garment makers from southern Russia. After several years in Chicago, the family moved to the port town of Racine, Wis. His father was a partner in a women's clothing factory. His mother ran the town's Paris Fashion store.

The young Hecht had a fascination with words, and read as if it were going out of style. He was a frequent visitor to his local library, and asked almost exclusively for books as gifts or payment for errands. He often entertained himself by making up stories as a youth.

When he wasn't reading, Hecht spent his free time watching stories and illustrated songs on the screen of Racine's Bijou Theatre.