Homer Simpson's name was, according to Matt Groening, inspired by a character also called Homer Simpson in the novel Day of the Locust written by Nathanael West. Donald Sutherland played this role in the 1975 movie adaptation directed by John Schlesinger. The novel is a darkly satirical look at "making it" in Hollywood, and the resulting disaffection by the characters as a result of that process. In the film, the character of Homer Simpson is described as a "hopelessly clumsy and disaffected everyman," which certainly makes him a a dead ringer for his yellow-skinned contemporary, personality-wise. Or, this could be just a clever misdirection by Groening, and he could have just named Homer after his father, like he also claimed in early interviews. Or perhaps he's named after the Greek author and epic playwright? Who's to say? So that's my list of 10 facts about Homer Simpson, do you have any more? Add them in the comments section below.
Hi there, What Culture-ers! I'm William Graff, a 40-year old freelance writer from the wilds of Capitol Hill in beautiful Denver, Colorado. I enjoy many things such as beer, Doctor Who, The Simpsons, record collecting, stand-up comedy, long aimless walks, and of course the Broncos, which is required by law if you live here. I appreciate all feedback for my writing, but I prefer cash and/or deleted Smiths singles in lieu of praise. Rock on!
