James Thurber

James Thurber 1

James Thurber 2

James Thurber

James Thurber House

James Thurber (December 8, 1894 – November 2, 1961) was an American cartoonist, author, humorist, journalist, playwright, and celebrated wit. Thurber was best known for his cartoons and short stories published mainly in The New Yorker magazine, such as "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty", which has been adapted for film on two occasions. His work is known for its wit, wordplay, and critique of the American lifestyle.

Early Life

James Grover Thurber was born in Columbus, Ohio, to Charles L. Thurber and Mary Agnes Fisher Thurber. An accident in his childhood left him with serious vision problems, which would plague him throughout his life and influence his unique artistic style. Despite his challenges, Thurber attended The Ohio State University, though he never graduated due to his inability to complete a mandatory ROTC course.

Career

After leaving university, Thurber worked at various jobs before joining The New Yorker in 1927, where he would remain a significant figure for the rest of his career. His collaboration with fellow New Yorker contributor E.B. White produced the famous Is Sex Necessary? Or, Why You Feel the Way You Do, a humorous examination of the American sex life.

Thurber's cartoons became some of the most popular features of The New Yorker. His drawings often depicted the suburban man as bewildered and beleaguered, humorously highlighting the complexities and absurdities of modern life. Thurber also wrote numerous short stories, essays, and plays. His story, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty", is perhaps his most famous, showcasing his skill in weaving rich fantasies and a sharp, comedic sense.

Personal Life

Thurber's personal life was marked by his struggle with failing eyesight, eventually leading to blindness in his later years. Despite this, he continued to write and draw with the aid of a magnifying device. He was married twice, first to Althea Adams, with whom he had a daughter, Rosemary. His second marriage was to Helen Wismer in 1935.

Legacy

James Thurber died on November 2, 1961, in New York City. His legacy as a leading American humorist of the 20th century remains secure, with his works continuing to be read and appreciated for their humor, insight, and unique perspective on life. Thurber's influence extends beyond literature and cartoons; his work has been adapted into films, television shows, and plays, ensuring that his wit and wisdom continue to entertain and enlighten new generations.