Donald Barthelme

Donald Barthelme (April 7, 1931 – July 23, 1989) was an American author known for his postmodern and metafictional short stories. He was a prominent figure in the literary world during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing significantly to the development of contemporary short fiction.

Early Life and Education

Barthelme was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but grew up in Houston, Texas. He was the son of Donald Barthelme Sr., a well-known modernist architect, and Helen Barthelme. Barthelme attended St. Thomas High School and later enrolled at the University of Houston, where he studied journalism.

Career

Barthelme's career began in journalism, working for the Houston Post and later for Location, a literary magazine. His first collection of short stories, Come Back, Dr. Caligari, was published in 1964 and established him as a leading voice in American literature.

Barthelme's work is characterized by its experimental style, often incorporating collage techniques and nonlinear narratives. His stories frequently explore themes of absurdism, alienation, and the complexities of modern life.

Major Works

Some of Barthelme's most notable works include:

• Snow White (1967) - A novel that reimagines the classic fairy tale in a contemporary setting.
• City Life (1970) - A collection of short stories that delve into urban existence.
• Sixty Stories (1981) - A compilation of Barthelme's short fiction, showcasing his range and innovation.

Teaching and Influence

Barthelme was also a respected educator, teaching at various institutions including City College of New York and the University of Houston. He influenced a generation of writers through his innovative approach to storytelling and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of literary form.

Personal Life

Barthelme was married four times and had two daughters. He struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which ultimately contributed to his death from throat cancer in 1989.

Legacy

Barthelme's work continues to be studied and admired for its originality and impact on contemporary literature. He is remembered as a master of the short story form and a pioneer of postmodern fiction.

See Also

• Postmodern literature
• Metafiction
• Short story
• American literature