My Life and Hard Times

work by Thurber

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July 1, 2026

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My Life and Hard Times is a collection of autobiographical pieces by American writer and cartoonist James Thurber. Published in 1933, the work is characterized by its whimsical and humorous tone, often depicting the author's childhood and family life in Columbus, Ohio. Thurber's writing is known for its unique blend of wit and gentle melancholy, exploring themes of everyday struggles and the human condition through relatable anecdotes. The book is a prime example of Thurber's signature style, which often featured his iconic drawings alongside his prose, creating a distinctive and beloved body of work.12

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James Thurber
My Life and Hard Times (1933) is a whimsical group of autobiographical pieces; a similar collection of family sketches appeared later in The Thurber Album (1952). Walter Mitty, the henpecked, daydreaming hero in the short story “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” is Thurber’s quintessential…
Read More
My Life and Hard Times (1933) is a whimsical group of autobiographical pieces; a similar collection of family sketches appeared later in The Thurber Album (1952). Walter Mitty, the henpecked, daydreaming hero in the short story “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” is Thurber’s quintessential…
Read More