168: “The Catbird Seat” by James Thurber

168: “The Catbird Seat” by James Thurber

From Why Is This Good? by Why Is This Good?

January 15, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

In this episode, we discuss the story 'The Catbird Seat' by James Thurber and explore its narrative techniques and humor.

Interested in our novel mentorship program or have any other questions? Email us at napleswritersworkshop@gmail.com If you enjoyed this episode, consider joining our Patreon. Your support helps us keep the show running. Find out more at http://www.patreon.com/whyisthisgoodpodcast You can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter at http://www.napleswritersworkshop.com In this episode, we discuss “The Catbird Seat” by James Thurber . What can we learn from this funny little story? How does point of view function in this story? How can an objective point of view allow us to balance what the character knows with what the reader needs to know? How does simple but elegant prose help guide the reader swiftly through the story?

Topics covered

  • literature
  • storytelling
  • point of view
  • writing
  • humor

Keywords

  • The Catbird Seat
  • James Thurber
  • point of view
  • objective perspective
  • elegant prose
  • character knowledge
  • reader engagement

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Catbird Seat

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