Carson McCullers

Carson McCullers (1917–1967), born Lula Carson Smith in Columbus, Georgia, was an American writer. She initially aspired to become a pianist and studied music before turning to literature. Before establishing herself as a writer, she worked in various jobs, including as a secretary, waitress, and bar pianist. Her debut novel, *The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter*, was published in 1940. Her other notable works include *Reflections in a Golden Eye*, *The Ballad of the Sad Café*, and several collections of short stories. McCullers died in 1967 in Nyack, New York.