James Joyce, one of the 20th century’s most influential writers, redefined language and storytelling with Ulysses. But the man behind the masterpiece was just as layered and eccentric as his work.

Born in Dublin in 1882, Joyce had a sharp intellect—he was reading Shakespeare by age six. Though he lived much of his life abroad, Dublin remained central in his writing, with Ulysses serving as a virtual map of the city.

He harbored a deep, almost superstitious fear of thunderstorms, shaped by Catholic teachings. During storms, he’d hide under furniture, convinced he could escape divine wrath.

Joyce also suffered from severe eye problems, undergoing over a dozen surgeries. Nearly blind, he wrote in large crayon letters on oversized paper, sometimes producing only a few words a day.

Despite his failing vision, he saw the world with remarkable clarity. His groundbreaking style—stream of consciousness, wordplay, and interior monologues—captured the messiness of thought and life. Ulysses was banned for its explicit content, but Joyce believed in its brilliance.

Surprisingly, he nearly became an opera singer. His love for music echoes through his writing. And his relationship with Nora Barnacle—his muse and partner—inspired many of his characters. Their playful, candid letters reveal a more intimate Joyce.