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Getting Even is a collection of 17 of Allen's magazine pieces from the late 1960s discussing such bizarre topics as the invention of the sandwich, laundry lists, death, obesity, and, of course, rabbis.
Without Feathers delivers more of Allen's New Yorker-style humor. Worthy stand-outs include "If the Impressionists Had Been Dentists," a genius piece that puts oral surgery in a whole new, much more exciting, light.
Finally, Side Effects compiles Allen's best New Yorker essays from the late 1970s. Although not as outrageously funny as his previous books, this is still a classic piece of comedy. --Naomi Gesinger
Inside Flap copy
Throughout, Allen grapples in his wildly inventive way with the targets that obsess him: death, God (or lack of God), women (or lack of women), intellectuals, the arts, and even dentists.
There is a distinct romantic strain that runs through much of his writings, which the author describes as "either Byronic or moronic." Allen is forever at war with the universe and claims unequivocally that he is "two with nature." His artistic ambition, as he puts it, is to "forge in the smithy of my soul the uncreated conscience of my race. And then see if I can get them mass-produced in plastic."
Getting Even--Investigates such significant subjects as Organized Crime, the invention of the sandwich, the secret diary of a Latin revolutionary, and a day in the life of Count Dracula.
Represents Woody Allen as psychologist: "...death is an acquired trait."
historian: "I did not know Hitler was a Nazi. The truth was, for years I thought he worked for the phone company."
philosopher: "I do not believe in an afterlife, although I am bringing a change of underwear."
Side Effects--Discusses such subjects as the nature of relativity, the UFO menace, and the predicament of modern man:
"Ah, God, how the mind boggles when it turns to moral or ethical considerations. Better not to think too much. rely more on the body--the body is more dependable. It shows up for meetings, it looks good in a sports jacket, and where it really comes in handy is when you want to ge a rubdown."
Whether he is musing on philosophy, science, world events, or offering the ultimate in restaurant reviews, The Complete Prose of Woody Allen displays the author's versatility and virtuosity with the written word--and his special brand of hmor.
