Ogden Nash Biography

Ogden Nash was an American poet known for his witty and humorous verse. He was born on August 19, 1902, in Rye, New York, and grew up in a wealthy family. His father was a successful businessman, and his mother was a socialite and amateur poet.

Nash attended Harvard University but dropped out after a year and a half. He worked various jobs, including advertising and editorial work, before he began writing poetry full-time.

Nash's first book of poetry, "Hard Lines," was published in 1931 and was an instant success. He went on to publish numerous other collections of poetry, including "I'm a Stranger Here Myself," "Good Intentions," and "Versus."

Nash's poetry is characterized by its clever wordplay, absurdity, and irreverent humor. He often wrote about everyday life and human foibles, and his poetry was popular with both adults and children.

In addition to his poetry, Nash wrote lyrics for musicals and films, including "One Touch of Venus" and "The Shining Hour." He also wrote essays and articles for various publications, including The New Yorker and Life magazine.

Nash was married twice and had two children. He died of complications from Crohn's disease on May 19, 1971, in Baltimore, Maryland. He is remembered as one of America's most beloved and humorous poets, whose unique style and humor continue to entertain and delight readers today.

Life of Ogden Nash

An ancestor, General Francis Nash, gave his name to Nashville, Tennessee.

Raised in Rye, New York and Savannah, Georgia. Educated at St. George's School in Rhode Island and, briefly, Harvard University.

Started work writing advertising copy for Doubleday, Page Publishing, New York, in 1925.

Published first book for children, The Cricket of Caradon in 1925.

First published poem Spring Comes to Murray Hill appears in New Yorker magazine in 1930.

Joins staff at New Yorker in 1932.

Married Frances Rider Leonard on June 6, 1933.

Published 19 books of poetry.

Collaborated, in 1943, in the musical comedy, One Touch of Venus

Elected to the National Institute of Arts and Letters in 1950.

Lived in New York but his principal home was in Baltimore, Maryland, where he died on May 19, 1971. He was buried in North Hampton, New Hampshire.