Damon Runyon 
Runyon from First to Last 

In ‘Runyon from First to Last’, Damon Runyon expertly weaves together a collection of his most renowned short stories, showcasing his unique blend of humor, wit, and understated wisdom. Set in the gritty underbelly of New York City, Runyon’s characters come to life through his signature colloquial language and sharp dialogue, capturing the essence of the Prohibition era with unparalleled authenticity. Each story is a testament to Runyon’s masterful storytelling, drawing readers into a world of gamblers, hustlers, and colorful personalities that remain unforgettable long after the final page. Damon Runyon, a prolific writer and journalist, was known for his distinctive narrative style and deep understanding of urban life. His experiences as a sports writer and Broadway columnist provided him with a rich tapestry of characters and settings that are reflected in his timeless tales. ‘Runyon from First to Last’ stands as a testament to Runyon’s enduring legacy as a chronicler of American life in the early 20th century, merging entertainment with profound insights on human nature. For readers seeking a captivating glimpse into the vibrant and tumultuous world of 1920s New York City, ‘Runyon from First to Last’ offers a delightful and insightful journey. Damon Runyon’s unparalleled storytelling and vivid characters make this collection a must-read for fans of classic American literature and anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling at its finest.

Giới thiệu về tác giả

Damon Runyon (1880-1946) was an American short-story writer and journalist, renowned for his vibrant fictional stories capturing the unorthodox hustles of New York City’s Broadway district. Born Alfred Damon Runyon in Manhattan, Kansas, he found his literary niche through his unique ear for the slangy patois of the very characters he portrayed—gamblers, hustlers, actors, and gangsters in an underbelly specked with glitz and despair. Runyon’s storytelling was marked by a distinctive narrative style devoid of past tense, a stylistic approach that added a timeless quality to his tales. His 1944 anthology ‘Runyon from First to Last’ encapsulates some of his finest work, consolidating his literary legacy. His sequences of Broadway tales were widely popular, and the compilation showcases the breadth of his narrative prowess and the depth of his characterizations. Beyond literary circles, Runyon’s fiction has exerted a profound influence on American culture, inspiring the musical ‘Guys and Dolls’ and numerous films. Synonymous with a particular place and a particular epoch, Runyon’s work immortalizes the vibrancy and eccentricity of an era with a blend of humor, compassion, and streetwise philosophy.