On Broadway
- 574 pages
- 21 hours of reading
Damon Runyon is celebrated for his vivid short stories that capture the vibrant world of New York's Broadway during the Prohibition era. His distinctive "Runyonesque" style is a unique blend of formal language and colorful slang, often told in the present tense and deliberately avoiding contractions. Runyon spun humorous tales populated by gamblers, hustlers, actors, and gangsters, many of whom adopted colorful monikers over their given names. His characters and their unique dialogue created an unforgettable tapestry of American underworld culture.







Celebrating the vibrant Broadway scene of New York City during the Prohibition era, this collection features characters that embody a unique social type from the Brooklyn and Midtown demi-monde. Alfred Damon Runyon's stories capture the essence of his time, showcasing the colorful and often eccentric individuals that populated the city, making them a reflection of the cultural landscape of early 20th century America.
Slick, upbeat and funny, these stories inspired the popular musical and film Guys and Dolls.'Of all the high players this country ever sees, there is no doubt but that the guy they call the Sky is the highest.. He will bet all he has, and nobody can bet any more than this'.
The Snatching of Bookie Bob - bk340; Penguin Books; Damon Runyon; pocket_book; 1995
The kind of writing included in this collection clearly shows the reasons for Damon Runyon's world-wide reputation.