Ring Lardner
Full Name and Common Aliases
Ring Lardner was born Ringgold Wilmer "Ring" Lardner Jr. on March 6, 1885, in Niles, Michigan.
Birth and Death Dates
March 6, 1885 – September 25, 1933
Nationality and Profession(s)
American journalist, humorist, and writer of novels, short stories, and sports articles
Early Life and Background
Ring Lardner was born to a family with strong literary roots. His father, Ringgold Wilmer Lardner Sr., was a Civil War veteran who later became the editor of the Niles Weekly Star. The younger Lardner grew up surrounded by newspapers and writers, developing an early interest in storytelling.
Lardner attended the University of Michigan, where he studied law but eventually dropped out to pursue a career in writing. He worked as a cub reporter for several small-town newspapers before moving to Chicago in 1908 to cover sports for the Chicago Tribune.
Major Accomplishments
Ring Lardner is widely regarded as one of the greatest humorists and writers of his time, known for his unique blend of wit, satire, and social commentary. His writing often tackled sensitive topics like politics, social class, and personal relationships with a light touch that made them both humorous and thought-provoking.
Lardner's work in sports journalism was particularly innovative. He pioneered the use of colloquial language and everyday dialogue in his articles about baseball, which gave readers a more authentic feel for the game.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Lardner's most notable works include:
The Young Immigrants (1914), a collection of short stories set among Chicago's immigrant communities
You Know Me Al (1919-1921), a series of sports columns and humorous essays written in the voice of a fictional baseball player named "Al" Hoermann
* Some Bachelors Need Shoes (1930), a novel that explored themes of love, relationships, and personal identity
Lardner's writing often focused on the lives and struggles of everyday people. His work offered a unique glimpse into the experiences of working-class Americans during the early 20th century.
Impact and Legacy
Ring Lardner's impact on American literature is immeasurable. He paved the way for future generations of writers with his innovative style, humor, and willingness to tackle tough subjects. His legacy can be seen in the work of authors like Ernest Hemingway and John Steinbeck, who were influenced by his writing.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ring Lardner is widely quoted for his insightful commentary on sports, politics, and social issues. His unique voice and perspective continue to captivate readers today.
Quotes by Ring Lardner
For inst. when the telephone rings now days I am scared to death that its somebody asking us to go somewheres for dinner or somewheres. Six yrs. ago I was afraid it wasn’t. At 29 home was like they say on the vaudeville stage, a place to go when all the other joints was closed up. At 35 its a place you never leave without a loud squawk.
The race is not always to the swift nor the battle to the strong – but that’s the way to bet.
Some like them hot,some like them cold. Some like them when they're not to darn old Some like them fat,some like them lean. Some like them only at sweet sixteen. Some like them dark,some like them light. Some like them in the park,late at night. Some like them fickle,some like them true, But the time I like them is when they're like you
They (wives) are people who think when the telephone bell rings, it is against the law not to answer it
