William Wymark Jacobs, commonly known as W.W. Jacobs, was a distinguished English author born on September 19, 1863, in Wapping, London. He is best remembered for his vivid storytelling and humor, particularly in his short stories that often captured the quirks of British life. Jacobs passed away on September 1, 1943, in a hospital in Hampstead, London, leaving behind a legacy that would influence countless writers.

Jacobs grew up in a working-class family; his father was a shipping clerk, which exposed him to the bustling life of the Thames and its seafaring culture. This setting would later provide rich material for his stories. He was educated at the local school and showed an early interest in literature, eventually working as a clerk in a shipping office while pursuing his writing career on the side.

His literary career began in earnest in the late 19th century, with Jacobs publishing his first collection of short stories, "Many Cargoes," in 1896. This work was well-received and showcased his knack for humor and vivid character portrayal. However, it was his later stories, particularly "The Monkey's Paw," published in 1902, that cemented his place in the annals of classic English literature. This chilling tale, which explores themes of fate and the supernatural, has been widely studied and adapted, demonstrating Jacobs's versatility as a writer.

In his personal life, Jacobs married the actress and writer, C. C. (Constance Clara) Jacobs, in 1895. The couple shared a deep bond, and their life together was marked by creativity and mutual support. Jacobs's works often reflected his love for the English countryside and the sea, weaving a rich tapestry of humor and suspense that continues to resonate with readers today. Through his captivating narratives and memorable characters, W.W. Jacobs remains an enduring figure in the world of literature.