James Thurber

Franklin Library James Thurber books

The Thurber Carnival - 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature - 1978

The Thurber Carnival - Collected Stories of the World's Greatest Writers - 1979
The Thurber Carnival - World's Best Loved Books - 1980
Selected Letters of James Thurber - Limited First Edition Society - 1981

 

 

 

James Thurber biography

James Thurber, born on December 8, 1894, in Columbus, Ohio, was a renowned American author, humorist, and cartoonist whose works left an indelible mark on 20th-century literature and humor. His unique blend of wit, imagination, and keen observation made him a beloved figure in American letters. Thurber's childhood was marked by adversity. At the age of seven, he was left partially blind due to an accident while playing with his brothers. Despite this setback, Thurber's imagination soared, and he found solace in literature and drawing. His experiences would later shape his distinctive worldview and artistic style. After graduating from Ohio State University in 1918, Thurber embarked on a career in journalism. He worked for various newspapers before joining The New Yorker magazine in 1927, where he would make his most significant contributions. His cartoons, characterized by their whimsical style and clever commentary on modern life, quickly gained popularity, earning him a devoted following.

Thurber's literary talents extended beyond his cartoons. He wrote essays, short stories, and plays, often infusing them with his trademark humor and wit. One of his most famous works is The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, a short story that delves into the escapades of a daydreaming man, which has since become a classic of American literature. Throughout his career, Thurber's writing and drawings captured the absurdities and complexities of human existence with sharp insight and humor. His keen observations on relationships, society, and the human condition resonated with readers of all ages. Thurber's works often featured recurring themes such as the battle of the sexes, the absurdity of bureaucracy, and the power of imagination.

Despite struggling with failing eyesight and other health issues, Thurber continued to write and create until his death on November 2, 1961. His legacy lives on through his timeless works, which continue to entertain and inspire readers around the world. James Thurber's enduring influence on American humor and literature is a testament to his unparalleled talent and creativity. His ability to find humor in the everyday and illuminate the human experience with warmth and insight cements his place as a master of wit and whimsy in the pantheon of great American writers.