John Cheever Quotes
A collection of quotes by John Cheever.
John Cheever (1912-1982) was an acclaimed American novelist and short-story writer. Born on May 27, 1912, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Cheever displayed an early talent for storytelling and began writing at a young age. He attended Thayer Academy in Braintree, Massachusetts, and later studied at Thayer Library in South Braintree. Cheever went on to attend Quincy High School, where he excelled academically.
Following high school, Cheever received a scholarship to study at Thayer Academy and later attended and graduated from Quincy High School in 1930. He briefly enrolled in a pre-medical program at Quincy Junior College but dropped out due to financial constraints and personal struggles with alcoholism.
Throughout the 1930s, Cheever worked various jobs, including as a journalist, screenwriter, and typist, while continuing his writing pursuits. In 1941, he published his first short story, "Expelled," in The New Republic, marking the beginning of his recognized literary career.
Cheever gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s for his skillful portrayal of post-war American suburban life. His works explored themes of dissatisfaction, alienation, and the emptiness often lurking beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic suburban existence. Notable works include his novels "The Wapshot Chronicle" (1957) and "Falconer" (1977), as well as his Pulitzer Prize-winning collection of short stories, "The Stories of John Cheever" (1978).
Despite battling alcoholism and personal demons throughout his life, John Cheever left an indelible mark on American literature with his honest and insightful portrayals of human nature. He died on June 18, 1982, in Ossining, New York, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to be celebrated today.
