'Steve Martin Writes the Written Word' Shows Depth of Comedian's Talent

"Steve Martin Writes the Written Word is an aptly-named collection and excellent introduction to the comedian's best writings, including some new material. In another piece, he makes the list of 100 greatest books he read laugh out loud funny with fake titles such as "Omelet: Olga - Mnemonic Devices for Remembering Waitress' Names" and "Marijuana! Totally Harmless (can't remember author).""

""Steve Martin Writes the Written Word: Collected Written Word Works" by Steve Martin is out now, via Grand Central Publishing. The book showcases Martin's versatility as a writer, especially by including his debut 2000 novella Shopgirl. In that book, Martin uses a subdued sense of humor to describe heartbreak and loneliness his characters experience no matter their age. The book also includes previously published selections from his writing for The New Yorker 's "Shouts & Murmurs" column."

Steve Martin's collection gathers his best comedic pieces and includes new material. The book showcases Martin's range from short comic essays to his subdued 2000 novella Shopgirl. Shopgirl employs understated humor to portray heartbreak and loneliness experienced by characters across ages. Several selections originally appeared in The New Yorker's "Shouts & Murmurs" column. Some pieces rely on cultural references, such as a Y3K Bug piece that plays on Y2K hysteria, which may not fully resonate with younger readers. The collection highlights a timely, enduring comedic voice and playful parodies like fake book titles.

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