Carter, and Other People (eBook)

Don Marquis, whose full name is Donald Robert Perry Marquis, was an illustrious American journalist, playwright, and humorist, remembered predominantly for his creation of the characters 'Archy' and 'Mehitabel' which featured in his daily newspaper column, 'The Sun Dial'. Born on July 29, 1878, in Walnut, Illinois, Marquis nurtured a prolific career that spanned several decades of the early 20th century, contributing significantly to American literature and journalism. His works often encapsulated the wit and satire that captured the temper of his times. 'Carter, and Other People' (1921), is one among the myriad of texts he composed that reflect his keen eye for social observation and his ability to characterize the miniature narratives of everyday life with both levity and profundity. Marquis's literary style frequently employed a blend of humorous verse and fable, wherein he exploited the unconventional lower-case typing of Archy, a cockroach with the soul of a poet, to subtly critique social norms. In addition to his newspaper columns and books, Marquis also authored several novels and plays, including 'The Old Soak,' which was later adapted into film. Marquis's influence extended beyond his lifetime, and his literary creations continue to be celebrated for their originality and enduring wit. He passed away on December 29, 1937, but left behind a legacy that endures in the American literary canon.