004 - Ch 4

Charles Farrar Browne, known to the world as Artemus Ward, was a celebrated writer and lecturer hailing from Maine. Much like his contemporary Mark Twain, Browne began his career as a type-setter before launching into the literary scene in 1858 with a captivating series of letters, essays, and stories narrated by a humorous, illiterate character full of insightful common sense. This character not only entertained audiences but also provided sharp commentary on the trends and events of his time. Taking his persona to the lecture stage, Browne became an early pioneer of stand-up comedy. His wit and charm even won him the admiration of President Abraham Lincoln, who once shared one of Wards tales with his cabinet before discussing the Emancipation Proclamation. Brownes work resonated both in America and across the Atlantic, where he toured Britain, delivered lectures, and contributed to the renowned comic magazine Punch. Tragically, Brownes life was cut short by tuberculosis at the young age of thirty-two in Southampton. (Interestingly, there was a real Artemus Ward, a general who served in the Continental Army during the American Revolution.) - Summary by Delmar H. Dolbier