Shirley Jackson
Full Name and Common Aliases
Shirley Hardie Jackson, often simply referred to as Shirley Jackson, was a prominent American writer known for her works of horror and mystery. Her unique storytelling style and ability to delve into the darker aspects of human nature have left a lasting impression on the literary world.
Birth and Death Dates
Shirley Jackson was born on December 14, 1916, in San Francisco, California, and she passed away on August 8, 1965, in North Bennington, Vermont.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Shirley Jackson was an American author, primarily recognized for her contributions to the genres of horror, mystery, and psychological suspense. Her career spanned over two decades, during which she wrote novels, short stories, and essays that captivated and unsettled readers.
Early Life and Background
Shirley Jackson grew up in a middle-class family in Burlingame, California. Her early life was marked by a complex relationship with her mother, who often criticized her appearance and demeanor. This tumultuous relationship is believed to have influenced Jackson's exploration of themes related to identity and societal expectations in her writing. Jackson attended the University of Rochester before transferring to Syracuse University, where she flourished as a writer and met her future husband, Stanley Edgar Hyman, a literary critic. The couple married in 1940 and eventually settled in North Bennington, Vermont, where they raised four children.
Major Accomplishments
Shirley Jackson's career was marked by significant achievements that established her as a master of psychological horror and suspense. Her short story "The Lottery," published in 1948 in The New Yorker, is one of her most famous works and sparked widespread controversy and discussion. The story's unsettling portrayal of a small town's annual ritual shocked readers and solidified Jackson's reputation as a writer unafraid to challenge societal norms. Throughout her career, Jackson published six novels, two memoirs, and over 200 short stories, earning her a place among the most influential writers of the 20th century.
Notable Works or Actions
Among Shirley Jackson's notable works, "The Haunting of Hill House" (1959) stands out as a classic in the horror genre. The novel's exploration of fear, isolation, and the supernatural has inspired numerous adaptations, including a successful Netflix series. Another significant work, "We Have Always Lived in the Castle" (1962), showcases Jackson's ability to create a chilling atmosphere and complex characters. Her memoirs, "Life Among the Savages" (1953) and "Raising Demons" (1957), offer a humorous and candid look at her experiences as a mother and writer, further demonstrating her versatility as an author.
Impact and Legacy
Shirley Jackson's impact on literature is profound, with her works continuing to influence writers and filmmakers. Her ability to blend the ordinary with the macabre has inspired countless authors, including Stephen King, Neil Gaiman, and Joyce Carol Oates. Jackson's exploration of themes such as alienation, identity, and societal pressure resonates with readers, ensuring her stories remain relevant and thought-provoking. Her contributions to the horror and mystery genres have earned her a posthumous reputation as a pioneer, and her works are frequently studied in academic settings.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Shirley Jackson is widely quoted and remembered for her ability to craft stories that delve into the human psyche and challenge societal norms. Her writing often features ordinary settings and characters, which she skillfully transforms into unsettling narratives that leave a lasting impression on readers. Jackson's exploration of fear, conformity, and the darker aspects of human nature continues to captivate audiences, making her a source of inspiration and reflection. Her quotes often encapsulate the tension and ambiguity present in her stories, offering insights into the complexities of human behavior and the world we inhabit. As a result, Shirley Jackson remains a significant figure in literature, celebrated for her unique voice and enduring influence.
Quotes by Shirley Jackson
Shirley Jackson's insights on:
I must say, John, I never expected to find you all so nervous,” Mrs. Montague said. “I deplore fear in these matters.” She tapped her foot irritably. “You know perfectly well, John, that those who have passed beyond expect to see us happy and smiling; they want to know that we are thinking of them lovingly. The spirits dwelling in this house may be actually suffering because they are aware that you are afraid of them.
It is a longing so intense that it creates what it desires, it cannot endure any touch of correction; it is, as I say, unspeakable.
Sally at this time gave up any notion of being a co-operative member of a family, named herself “Tiger” and settled down to an unceasing, and seemingly endless, war against clothes, toothbrushes, all green vegetables, and bed.
The great art of life is sensation, to feel that we exist, even in pain,” said Lord Byron, enunciating a basic Romantic idea and, perhaps, hoping that goblins, ghosts, and demons provided some necessary release.
Jonas,” I told him, “you are not to listen any more to Cousin Charles,” and Jonas regarded me in wide-eyed astonishment, that I should attempt to make decisions for him.