Shirley Jackson: A Literary Portrait

Early Life Shirley Jackson, a prominent American writer, was born on December 14, 1916, in San Francisco, California. She was the daughter of Leslie Jackson and Geraldine. Her parents, conservative members of the country club set, provided their children with a life of luxury. However, Shirley's childhood was marred by her mother's disappointment, as she believed Shirley was an accidental conception due to a failed abortion. This early emotional turmoil profoundly impacted Shirley, and she channeled these feelings into her later writings. Educational Journey Shirley Jackson commenced her educational path at Burlingame High School, excelling both academically and musically by playing the violin in the school orchestra. Later, her family relocated to New York during her senior years, where she completed her diploma at Brighton High School in 1934. Subsequently, she attended the University of Rochester, a private research university, but remained dissatisfied with her classes. Her d…