Don Barthelme Quotes

A collection of quotes by Don Barthelme.

Donald Barthelme was an American writer known for his experimental and unconventional style of fiction. Born on April 7, 1931, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Barthelme grew up in a literary and artistic family. His father was a renowned architect, and his mother was a former actress and aspiring writer.

Barthelme's literary career took off in the 1960s when he started publishing short stories in various literary magazines such as The New Yorker and Esquire. His stories were often characterized by fragmented narratives, non-linear structures, and a blend of humor and satire. He challenged traditional storytelling conventions, eschewing plot and character development in favor of exploring themes of art, language, and contemporary culture.

Throughout his career, Barthelme published numerous acclaimed works, including collections of short stories such as "City Life" (1970) and "Sixty Stories" (1981). His novels, such as "Snow White" (1967) and "The Dead Father" (1975), also garnered significant attention for their idiosyncratic and inventive narrative styles.

Barthelme's innovative and avant-garde approach to fiction influenced a whole generation of writers and earned him a dedicated following. He received several awards for his contributions to literature, including the National Book Award and the Rea Award for the Short Story. Sadly, Donald Barthelme passed away on July 23, 1989, in Houston, Texas, leaving behind a formidable body of work that continues to inspire and challenge readers.