Damon Runyon
Alfred Damon Runyon (October 4, 1880 – December 10, 1946) was a renowned American journalist and short-story writer, best known for his vivid portrayal of the vibrant yet gritty world of Broadway during the Prohibition era. His stories are populated with a colorful cast of characters, known as "Damon Runyon characters," who embody the distinctive social types of Brooklyn and Midtown Manhattan. The term Runyonesque is used to describe the quirky characters and unique situations depicted in his writing, characterized by a distinctive style and dialect.
Early Life and Background
Damon Runyon was born Alfred Damon Runyan in Manhattan, Kansas to Alfred Lee and Elizabeth (Damon) Runyan. In 1882, his father was compelled to sell their newspaper, prompting the family to move west. They eventually settled in Pueblo, Colorado in 1887, where Runyon spent his formative years. Despite attending school only until the fourth grade, Runyon developed a keen interest in writing and storytelling, which would later define his career.
Career in Journalism
Runyon began his career as a newspaper reporter covering sports and general news for various publications, many of which were owned by the media magnate William Randolph Hearst. His reporting style was innovative, as evidenced by his famous "present tense" article on President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's inauguration in 1933 for the Universal Service syndicate. This unique approach contributed to the merging of Universal Service with the International News Service in 1937.
Literary Contributions
Runyon's literary prowess is immortalized in his short stories, which often depict the underworld of Broadway. Notable works include "The Idyll of Miss Sarah Brown" and "Little Pinks," which inspired the film The Big Street featuring Henry Fonda and Lucille Ball. His stories were also adapted into the successful Broadway musical Guys and Dolls, which combines elements of his celebrated tales "The Idyll of Miss Sarah Brown" and "Blood Pressure."
Legacy and Influence
The influence of Runyon’s work extends beyond literature and into popular culture. The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation was established to honor his memory, a testament to his impact beyond writing. Additionally, the Damon Runyon Stakes, a Thoroughbred horse race, and the television show Damon Runyon Theater highlight his enduring legacy.
His unique narrative style and ability to capture the essence of New York City's vibrant life ensured that his work remains an intrinsic part of American cultural and literary heritage. Runyon’s stories continue to entertain, reflecting the complexities and charm of early 20th-century urban life.