Virginia Woolf is highly influential. Her stream - of - consciousness writing style in works like 'To the Lighthouse' revolutionized the way novels were written. Another is D. H. Lawrence. His novels, such as 'Sons and Lovers', explored human relationships and sexuality in a very bold way for the time.
E. M. Forster is a significant author. His novels like 'Howards End' and 'A Passage to India' dealt with issues of class, culture, and colonialism. Evelyn Waugh is also worth mentioning. His satirical works, such as 'Brideshead Revisited', provided a sharp look at the upper - class British society and its follies.
J. R. R. Tolkien is also important, though his works are often associated with fantasy. 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy, which was written in the 20th century, has had a global impact not only on literature but also on popular culture. George Orwell is another key figure. His '1984' and 'Animal Farm' are powerful critiques of totalitarianism and political systems.