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Exploring S. N. Behrman's Legacy and Humor in Writing

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The piece reviews the legacy of S. N. Behrman, a playwright and screenwriter, focusing on The Days of Duveen.
The 1951 work critiques the American wealthy class's desire for art through art dealer Joseph Duveen.
The author recalls a lunch with Roger Angell of The New Yorker, discussing challenges in humorous long-form journalism.
Angell, who died in 2022, emphasized the importance of humor in writing and relief from burdens.

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Story summary

The piece reviews the legacy of S. N. Behrman, a playwright and screenwriter, focusing on The Days of Duveen.
The 1951 work critiques the American wealthy class's desire for art through art dealer Joseph Duveen.
The author recalls a lunch with Roger Angell of The New Yorker, discussing challenges in humorous long-form journalism.
Angell, who died in 2022, emphasized the importance of humor in writing and relief from burdens.