Tom Robbins, master of literary mischief, passes away

Tom Robbins, the counterculture icon and literary prankster whose novels like “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” and “Jitterbug Perfume” delighted and confounded readers for decades, has died. He was 92.   

Robbins passed away peacefully at his home in La Conner, Washington, surrounded by his family and pets, on February 9, 2025. His wife, Alexa D’Avalon Robbins, confirmed his death in a heartfelt post on social media, describing him as “brave, funny, and sweet” with “an eternally youthful spirit.”   

Born in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, on July 22, 1932, Robbins developed a taste for the unconventional early in life. He was named “Most Mischievous Boy” in high school, a title that perhaps foreshadowed his future as a literary provocateur. After a stint in the Air Force and a period working as a journalist, Robbins found his true calling in writing fiction.   

His novels, often described as “seriocomedies,” blended humor, philosophy, and social commentary with a healthy dose of absurdity. Characters with elongated thumbs, sentient vegetables, and even the corpse of Jesus Christ populated his wildly imaginative worlds. Robbins’ writing style was as unique as his subject matter, characterized by playful language, digressive storytelling, and a knack for turning conventional wisdom on its head.   

“Even Cowgirls Get the Blues,” published in 1976, became a cultural touchstone, its tale of a free-spirited woman with oversized thumbs resonated with a generation seeking alternative lifestyles. The novel was later adapted into a film starring Uma Thurman and Keanu Reeves, further cementing Robbins’ status as a counterculture icon.   

Other notable works include “Jitterbug Perfume,” a whimsical exploration of immortality and the power of scent, “Still Life with Woodpecker,” a love story wrapped in a mystery, and “Fierce Invalids Home from Hot Climates,” a satirical take on travel and self-discovery. Robbins’ novels were not just entertaining; they challenged readers to think differently about the world and their place in it.   

Throughout his career, Robbins remained true to his unconventional spirit. He shunned the literary establishment, preferring to cultivate a devoted following of readers who appreciated his unique blend of humor and wisdom. His works often tackled big questions about life, love, and the nature of reality, but always with a wink and a nudge.

Robbins’ influence on contemporary literature is undeniable. His playful approach to language and storytelling paved the way for a new generation of writers who dared to challenge conventions. His works have been translated into numerous languages and continue to inspire readers around the world.   

In his later years, Robbins remained active, publishing his memoir, “Tibetan Peach Pie,” in 2014. He also enjoyed interacting with his fans, often responding to letters and engaging in discussions about his work.   

Tom Robbins leaves behind a legacy of laughter, thought-provoking ideas, and a body of work that celebrates the joy of being different. He will be remembered not only as a literary prankster but also as a philosopher, a storyteller, and a true original.