Blake Bailey gained recognition in 2003 with his well-received biography of Richard Yates, “A Tragic Honesty,” which reignited interest in the author’s works like “Revolutionary Road” (1961), inspiring a movie adaptation.
Bailey meticulously researched John Cheever’s life for this biography, delving into archives, reading Cheever’s extensive journal, conducting interviews, and editing his literary works for the Library of America. The result is a thorough 770-page biography spanning fifty chapters, accompanied by photographs and a detailed index.
Cheever’s tumultuous family life in Quincy, Massachusetts, and his early literary success at eighteen with “Expelled from Prep School” shaped his career. Despite facing personal struggles such as financial woes and mental health issues, he achieved literary acclaim with stories in The New Yorker and novels like “The Wapshot Chronicle.”
The biography incorporates Cheever’s personal struggles, including bisexuality, alcoholism, and strained relationships. Bailey explores Cheever’s interactions with fellow writers and tracks his literary achievements, accolades, and personal challenges. Cheever’s works, from short stories to novels, are analyzed thoroughly, highlighting Bailey’s comprehensive approach.
Despite his personal battles, Cheever’s dedication to literature remained steadfast. Bailey’s biography offers a comprehensive look at Cheever’s life and legacy, paying tribute to his literary contributions while capturing the complexities of his personal life.
Before his death in 1982, Cheever, acknowledged as a writer’s writer, received the National Medal for Literature and emphasized the enduring power of good prose. Bailey’s biography may contribute to a renewed interest in Cheever’s work, similar to the impact he had on Yates’ legacy.
