Of All Things

"Of All Things" by Robert C. Benchley is a collection of humorous essays written in the early 20th century. This work captures the wit and charm of Benchley’s observations on various topics, including social quirks, natural phenomena, and everyday life’s absurdities. Through his engaging style, Benchley provides delightful commentary that resonates with readers looking for lighthearted yet pointed reflections on the human experience. The opening of the collection introduces the premise of studying the social life of newts, a seemingly absurd topic treated with serious scientific undertones. Benchley humorously recounts his foray into newt observation, exploring their courtship rituals and social hierarchies while simultaneously drawing parallels to human behavior. His whimsical approach transforms what might be a dry biological account into an entertaining narrative, showcasing his ability to turn mundane subjects into comedic gold. As he delves into the quirks of these amphibians, he sets the stage for a series of amusing insights that characterize the essays to come. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Robert Charles Benchley was an American humorist best known for his work as a newspaper columnist and movie actor. From his beginnings at The Harvard Lampoon while attending Harvard University, through his many years writing essays and articles for Vanity Fair and The New Yorker and his acclaimed short films, Benchley's style of humor brought him respect and success during his life, from his peers at the Algonquin Round Table in New York City to contemporaries in the burgeoning film industry.