Literary prankster-philosopher Tom Robbins dead at 92
Tom Robbins, the beloved novelist known for his quirky and imaginative storytelling, has passed away at the age of 92. His friend, Craig Popelars, confirmed the news of his death on Sunday morning. Robbins was known for his unique blend of humor, philosophy, and offbeat adventures in novels such as “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” and “Jitterbug Perfume.”
Describing himself as blessed with “crazy wisdom,” Robbins published eight novels and a memoir titled “Tibetan Peach Pie.” He was known for his deadpan absurdity, unconventional storylines, and authorial commentary. His wild imagination was evident in his characters, from a wayward heroine with elongated thumbs in “Cowgirls” to the corpse of Jesus in “Another Roadside Attraction.” Robbins had a knack for telling odd jokes about himself, once humorously describing his voice as sounding “as if it’s been strained through Davy Crockett’s underwear.”
Throughout his life, Robbins maintained a youthful and mischievous spirit, earning him the title of “the perennial flower child and wild blooming Peter Pan of American letters.” He had a knack for weaving his own eccentric experiences into his narratives, from wearing a duck mask to a proctologist appointment to being mistaken for a celebrity by a hotel clerk.
Robbins’ novels captured the spirit of the 1960s, a time he knew intimately through his own experiences. He dropped acid, hitchhiked across the country, and explored the world with a sense of wonder and curiosity. His writing reflected this era from the inside, without relying on topical references but rather on a deep understanding of the cultural phenomenon of the time.
The path to fiction writing for Robbins was as meandering and hallucinatory as his stories. A dropout from Washington and Lee University, he joined the Air Force before finding himself as a classical music critic for the Seattle Times. His debut novel, “Another Roadside Attraction,” was published in 1971 and became a hit in paperback after initially selling little in hardcover.
Robbins’ other works, including “Half Asleep in Frog Pajamas,” “Fierce Invalids Home from Hot Climates,” and “Villa Incognito,” solidified his reputation as a master of high foolishness. Despite his domestic adventures and multiple marriages, Robbins found stability and companionship with his third wife, Alexa d’Avalon.
Throughout his career, Robbins received numerous accolades, including the Bumbershoot Golden Umbrella Award for Lifetime Achievement. However, his greatest joy came from the heartfelt letters of fans who found laughter, thoughtfulness, and wonder in his books.
Tom Robbins leaves behind a legacy of whimsical storytelling and profound insight, reminding us to embrace the absurdities of life and find joy in the wonder of the world.
