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Metropolitan Life

First published 1978 · 222 pages

A sharp, witty collection of essays capturing the absurdities and customs of city living.

What it feels like

Reading this collection of humorous essays feels like sitting in a bustling New York City cafe with a sharply observant, endlessly witty companion. The pace is brisk, driven by quick, biting anecdotes that dissect the absurdities of modern manners and urban social life. Its tone is distinctly wry and cosmopolitan, wrapping the reader in a lively, slightly cynical mood that celebrates the quirks of city living. The prose is sharp and conversational, relying on American wit to skewer everyday customs with effortless charm. It is a delightful experience for readers who crave clever social commentary and find humor in the unspoken rules of metropolitan existence, offering a timeless snapshot of urban absurdity.

Mood
  • cosmopolitan
  • lively
  • cynical
  • urban
Tone
  • wry
  • observant
  • humorous
  • satirical
Pace
brisk
Themes
city living · social observation · modern manners · urban absurdity
The writing
Sharp, witty, and anecdotal, driven by keen social observation and dry humor.
The arc
A steady stream of sharp, amusing observations that builds a cohesive, entertaining portrait of urban social life.
Who it's for
Readers who enjoy sharp, humorous essays about city life and the absurdities of modern social customs.

About the book

Originally published: New York: Dutton, 1978.

"Limited edition of 1500 books"--Colophon.

"Edition 7L Paris"--Cover.

Description from Open Library.

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