Description:
(Novelist & Short Story Writer)
John William Cheever was a famous novelist and short story writer who is widely recognized as one of the most important short fiction writers of the 20th century. His writings were mostly set around locations near Manhattan, Massachusetts and Italy. His fictional plots often revolved around the duality of human nature, manifested as inner struggles within a single character or conflicts between two characters who personify different aspects of the human personality. Along with human nature he also explored the theme of nostalgia for a past way of life that is no longer there. Some of his most popular short stories are ‘The Enormous Radio’, ‘Goodbye My Brother’, ‘The Country Husband’, and ‘The Swimmer’. Though he is best remembered for his short fiction writing but he also authored the popular novel ‘The Wapshot Chronicle’ which won the National Book Award. He was born into a rich and prosperous family and enjoyed a comfortable childhood before the Great Depression struck and his father lost his successful business. Things took a turn for the worse and his family life greatly suffered. Young John was expelled from school and he wrote his first published short story: ‘Expelled’. After years of struggle he became an established writer but became victim to alcoholism due to which his personal as well as professional life suffered.
Birthday
May 27, 1912 (Gemini)
Alternative names
John William Cheever
Died on
June 18, 1982
Spouse/Ex-
Mary Winternitz
Parents
Frederick Lincoln Cheever
Mary Liley Cheever
Children
Benjamin Cheever, Frederico, Susan
Relatives
Fred
What themes are commonly found in John Cheever's works?
John Cheever's works often explore themes of suburban life, conformity, alienation, and the struggle for connection and meaning in modern society.
How did John Cheever's own life experiences influence his writing?
John Cheever drew heavily from his own experiences growing up in a wealthy suburb and dealing with issues such as alcoholism and marital problems, which are reflected in his works.
What is the significance of John Cheever's use of symbolism in his stories?
John Cheever's use of symbolism, such as water and swimming pools, often conveys deeper themes of escape, renewal, and the facade of suburban life in his works.
How did critics and readers initially respond to John Cheever's writing?
Critics and readers initially praised John Cheever for his elegant prose, keen observations of human behavior, and ability to capture the complexities of suburban life in mid-20th century America.
What is the legacy of John Cheever's writing in American literature?
John Cheever is regarded as a master of the short story form and is credited with capturing the essence of post-war American life with wit, insight, and poignant storytelling. His works continue to be studied and admired for their timeless themes and literary craftsmanship.
