Don Marquis (1878-1937) was an American journalist, author, and satirist. He was best known for his column titled "The Sun Dial" which he wrote for The Evening Sun newspaper in New York City. Marquis was highly regarded for his wit, humor, and insightful social commentary.
In addition to his newspaper work, Marquis also gained acclaim for his fiction writing. He is particularly noted for his creation of the fictional characters Archy, a poetic cockroach, and Mehitabel, a streetwise alley cat. Marquis presented their stories as a series of free-verse poems, with Archy typing his adventures on a typewriter despite the inconvenience of being a tiny insect.
Marquis used Archy and Mehitabel as symbols to explore deep philosophical questions about life, mortality, and the human condition. Through the humorous and often lamenting musings of these unconventional characters, Marquis offered profound insights into the complexities of existence.
Today, Marquis is considered a significant figure in American literature and journalism. His works continue to be studied and appreciated for their unique blend of humor, satire, and thought-provoking themes. Don Marquis' contributions to literary and social criticism have made a lasting impact, with his legacy as a writer and humorist leaving an indelible mark on American literary culture.
