Richard Armour
Prolific poet and humorist, over 100 published books blending humor with literary commentary
Richard Willard Armour (1906-1989) was an American poet, author, and humorist who became one of the most prolific writers of his era, publishing over 100 books during his lifetime. Born in Los Angeles, Armour attended Pomona College and later taught at Occidental College for many years, where he influenced generations of writers. He was renowned for his clever, humorous verse that often parodied classic literature and commented on contemporary American life with wit and warmth. His works included poetry collections, children's books, and satirical takes on history and literature. Armour's ability to make literary criticism accessible and entertaining to general audiences made him a beloved figure in mid-20th century American letters. His legacy endures as an example of how humor and erudition need not be mutually exclusive, and his collections remain treasured by readers seeking intelligent, lighthearted verse.
Arts & Literature
American
1906
1989
Thinking about the name
Armour
English origin
“The British spelling of Armor, Armour maintains the meaning of protection while adding refined, international polish. The -our ending associates it with traditional British and Commonwealth naming conventions. It's the same powerful concept with a more formal, classical presentation.”