Anderson, Sherwood (1876-1941)

US short-story writer and novelist. He is best known for his sensitive, poetic, and experimental naturalism, dealing with the desperation of small-town Midwestern life. His most highly acclaimed work is the story-cycle Winesburg, Ohio (1919); other works include the novel Dark Laughter (1925) and the collection of short stories Death in the Woods (1933).

A member of the Chicago Group, he was encouraged by Theodore Dreiser, Carl Sandburg, and later influenced by Gertrude Stein.

Anderson was born in Camden, Ohio. He joined the army at the age of 17 and then worked in a factory before leaving his wife and job and going to Chicago. His works include Windy McPherson's Son (1916), Poor White (1920), Hello Towns (1929), and Puzzled America (1935). He is also known for his autobiographical works.