Stout's first stories appeared in the 1910s among others in All-Story Magazine. He went to sell articles and stories to a variety of magazines. In 1927 he became a full-time writer. Stout lost his money had made as a businessman in 1929. Wolfe's daily beer consumption is a marvel, he has yellow silk pyjamas, and he loves orchids.
Nothing is as pitiable as a man afraid of a woman.
During the WW II Stout cut back on his detective writing, joined the Fight for Freedom organization, and wrote propaganda. He hosted three weekly radio shows, and coordinated volunteer services of American writers to help the war effort. After the war Stout returned to his Nero Wolfe novels, and took up the role of gentleman farmer on his estate at High Meadows in Brewster, North of New York City. He served as President of the Authors Guild and of the Mystery Writers of America. In 1959 he received Grand Master Award from the latter organization.