James Thurber

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James Thurber Biography

James Thurber's name has become synonymous with American humor. Throughout his many publications and contributions to The New Yorker, Thurber crafted a uniquely quirky version of Americana. Perhaps his most famous story, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (which became a film eight years after its publication) best captures his style. The story deals with an Average Joe whose wild fantasy life takes him on five very different, very humorous adventures. Thurber also had comedic success in the theater with his play The Male Animal and with a one-man show based on his own writings. Thurber even became the subject of a brief, but critically heralded, television series that debuted a few years after his death.

Facts and Trivia

  • As a youth, Thurber was shot in the eye by one of his brothers while playing William Tell. He lost the eye, and his remaining eyesight continued to decline for the rest of his life.
  • As a young man, Thurber worked as a reporter in his native Columbus, Ohio, where he was a movie, theater, and literature critic.
  • During his time at The New Yorker, Thurber worked alongside fellow writer E. B. White, author of Charlotte’s Web.
  • In addition to his writing, Thurber was an accomplished artist. He provided numerous illustrations and cover art during his tenure at The New Yorker.
  • Thurber’s drawing was obviously affected by his poor eyesight. Writer Dorothy Parker once assessed Thurber’s drawings as having the “semblance of unbaked cookies.”

Biography

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James Thurber revolutionized American humor, transforming it from its rustic roots into a sophisticated, urbane style suited for 20th-century America. His work mirrored the complexities and anxieties of a nation stepping into global leadership. Through his poignant storytelling and unique cartoons, Thurber became a beacon of humor and insight during turbulent times.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Columbus, Ohio, James Grover Thurber's early life played a pivotal role in shaping his literary style. A tragic accident at the age of seven left him blind in one eye, with the other eye also deteriorating over time. This impairment isolated Thurber from typical childhood activities and sparked a vivid imagination, channeling his energies into reading and cinema. Though he attended Ohio State University, he never graduated, but he did make significant contributions to the university’s humor magazine and student theatrical productions. Influenced by literary figures like Henry James, Thurber found a mentor and collaborator in E. B. White, with whom he co-authored the book Is Sex Necessary?

During World War I, Thurber's career took him to Washington, D.C., and Paris as a code clerk for the State Department. After the war, he returned to journalism, working for the Columbus Dispatch and as a correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor. His career took a significant turn when he joined the staff of the New York Evening Post in 1925.

Thurber's personal life saw him marry twice. His first marriage to Althea Adams produced a daughter, Rosemary. Their union, however, ended in divorce due to incompatibility. Thurber found lasting companionship with Helen Wismer, who became crucial in managing his career and personal affairs as his vision continued to fail.

Career and Artistic Contributions

Thurber's career-defining moment came with his association with The New Yorker, a magazine that debuted in 1925 under Harold W. Ross. Recommended by E. B. White, Thurber's initial role as managing editor was short-lived due to his lack of managerial skills. He flourished, however, as a staff writer, contributing to the "Talk of the Town" section and setting new literary benchmarks alongside White.

Thurber's whimsical doodles became an unexpected success. His drawings, depicting humans and animals in childlike simplicity, captivated readers with their charm. His colleague White famously remarked, "If you ever got good you’d be mediocre," underscoring the unique appeal of Thurber's seemingly amateurish style. His cartoons, particularly his drawings of dogs, brought him fame comparable to that of iconic characters like Snoopy.

Beyond cartoons, Thurber's writing catalog includes a mix of stories, essays, and more, largely originating from his New Yorker contributions. Notable collections include The Thurber Carnival and The Middle-Aged Man on the Flying Trapeze. One of his most celebrated works, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," was adapted into a film in 1947, exemplifying his lasting impact on American culture.

Literary Themes and Impact

Thurber often explored themes of the "battle of the sexes," illustrating the evolving dynamics between men and women with humor and insight. His work, such as "The War Between Men and Women," prefigured societal changes that would emerge with the women's movement later in the century. His stories and cartoons highlighted and poked fun at gender roles, reflecting a keen awareness of the shifting social landscape.

In his later years, blindness forced Thurber to abandon drawing. He turned to dictating his stories, which became increasingly cynical as he grappled with personal demons like depression and alcoholism. Despite these challenges, his work remained influential, and many of his previously overlooked pieces were published posthumously, continuing to captivate audiences.

Legacy and Influence

Thurber's body of work serves as a testament to...

(This entire section contains 840 words.)

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his remarkable ability to turn personal tribulations into humor. His writings offer a nostalgic view of a simpler America, juxtaposed against the rapid changes of the 20th century. As a pioneer of sophisticated humor, Thurber paved the way for future generations of comedians and writers, leaving an indelible mark on American literature and entertainment.

His influence resonates through the works of comedians like Woody Allen and Jerry Seinfeld, who similarly find humor in the complexities of modern life. Thurber's legacy is one of insight and wit, urging audiences to find laughter in the chaos of living. His craftsmanship, a nod to his mentor Henry James, has inspired writers worldwide, setting a high standard for literary excellence.

Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into Thurber's life, Burton Bernstein's Thurber: A Biography offers an authorized account, enriched by access to personal letters and papers. Neil A. Grauer's Remember Laughter: A Life of James Thurber presents a succinct, engaging depiction, peppered with anecdotes and illustrations. Charles S. Holmes's edited collection, Thurber: A Collection of Critical Essays, provides scholarly analysis from notable authors.

Harrison Kinney's extensive biography, James Thurber: His Life and Times, gives a detailed exploration of Thurber’s world and career. James Thurber by Robert E. Morsberger offers insights into the breadth of Thurber's influences and interactions. Thurber's own works, such as My Life and Hard Times and The Thurber Carnival, are essential reads for understanding his humorous yet poignant reflection on life.

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Critical Essays

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