Part of the purpose of this web log is to present material not likely to be found anywhere else. Such is the case with this post as I retrieve from history the name of Robert Benchley. For some, this name is quite familiar, for others it may sound vaguely familiar. For still others, the name may not ring a bell at all. Robert Benchley was an author, actor, and humorist and according to the book jacket was much loved by all. It seemed he had a warm heart as well as a ready wit.
Recently I acquired his book The Early Worm, first published 'way back in 1927. (I wonder how many reading this remember the publication of this book.) The volume was re-printed in 1946 shortly after Benchley's death.
I have read several of the early stories in the book and -- with one exception -- have found them to be very funny. The writing is breezy without being vapid, witty without sneering. The experience is a little like eating cinammon toast on a warm early-autumn day. The air is most pleasant and the taste is at once sweet and spicey.
One of my favorite stories is about the bicycle expedition to the North Pole, intended to "catch up" to Amundsen and Byrd. This may sound like a silly premise for a story, but the actual tale is quite hilarious as told by the talented Benchley.
If you can find this book I highly recommend it.
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