
His early work as a reporter, exposure to wartime experience, and a belief that less on the page lets readers infer more. He favored concrete action over explicit emotional explanation.
Yes. Serving near the front lines and working as a war correspondent shaped recurring themes: courage, loss, and how people face extreme situations.
He moved widely: his life included Midwestern roots, long periods living abroad in Europe and Latin America, and later years in a mountain town in the U.S.
Yes. He began as a newspaper reporter and continued reporting during wars. Journalism helped him develop concise, observational prose.
Yes. He wrote many short stories, essays, memoir pieces, and reportage. His short fiction is especially celebrated.
He married four times over his life; his relationships were often public and sometimes influenced his work and travels.
Yes. Several of his stories and novels were turned into movies and plays, bringing his narratives to broader audiences.
Some readers question portrayals of gender and masculinity, his personal conduct, and hunting/colonial attitudes. Scholars debate his legacy amid evolving values.
He died by suicide late in life. His death has prompted ongoing conversations about mental health, medical care, and his literary legacy.