James Thurber believed in starting with a captivating idea. A good story should have an element of surprise or novelty to draw the reader in.
According to James Thurber, a great story often has a clear structure. It should have a beginning that sets the stage, a middle with rising action and complications, and an ending that resolves the conflicts and leaves a lasting impression. Additionally, adding humor or a touch of the unexpected can make the story stand out.
James Thurber was born in 1894. He faced various challenges in his life. He had problems with his eyesight which affected his view of the world and perhaps even influenced his writing. His stories were filled with his own experiences, like his family life and his interactions with people in the city. He was a master at creating comical situations that were also relatable. His works like 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' became very popular, showing his talent for portraying the ordinary man's fantasies and insecurities.
Thurber has a great sense of humor in his writing. His short stories often have humorous situations and witty dialogues that make the reader laugh while also thinking. For example, in many of his stories, the characters' misunderstandings lead to comical outcomes. He also has a unique way of creating vivid characters with just a few strokes. In his stories, you can quickly get a sense of who the characters are, what they want, and what their flaws are.
In 'University Days' by James Thurber, one can find a humorous take on the college experience. Thurber often uses his unique brand of humor to depict the absurdities that can occur in an academic setting. For example, his descriptions of the relationships between students and professors are filled with comical misunderstandings and idiosyncrasies. This story is not just about the academic learning but also about the social and personal growth that occurs during university days, albeit in a rather satirical way.
I think 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' is the most famous. It has been adapted in various forms over the years. The story of Walter Mitty, who escapes his dull life through vivid daydreams, really captures people's imagination. It shows Thurber's ability to create a character that many can identify with, someone who longs for more adventure and excitement in their rather ordinary lives.
I'm not sure of the exact count, but James Thurber was a prolific short story writer. His stories often featured humor and unique perspectives. You might need to refer to comprehensive literary references to get an accurate tally.
I'm not sure of the exact number, but he wrote a considerable amount.
The Christmas story in the King James Version based on Luke is a beautiful account. Luke tells of the angel Gabriel appearing to Mary, a virgin. He tells her she will bear a son, Jesus. Mary is betrothed to Joseph at the time. Joseph, being a righteous man, was initially troubled but was guided by an angel in a dream. Then there was the census which required them to travel to Bethlehem. In Bethlehem, Jesus was born in a manger because there was no room at the inn. Shepherds in the fields were visited by angels who told them of the great news of the Savior's birth, and they went to see the baby Jesus.
In 'The Little Girl and the Wolf' by James Thurber, it is a modern take on the classic wolf - little girl encounter. The story likely plays with the expectations set by traditional tales. It might show how the characters deviate from the typical roles, perhaps the little girl is not as naive as in the old stories or the wolf may have some new traits.
James Thurber's fantastic fiction has had a significant influence on modern literature. His unique style has inspired many other writers to experiment with the boundaries of reality in their own works.
One of the great things about James Thurber's fantastic fiction is how it reflects the human condition in a different light. Through his strange and wonderful tales, we can see aspects of our own lives, such as our fears, hopes, and the way we interact with the world around us. His works also show how we deal with the unexpected and the absurd, making his fiction not just entertaining but also thought - provoking.