Pieces of Hate and other Enthusiasms

Description

Heywood Campbell Broun was an American journalist and humorist who wrote on many social issues. His novel “Pieces of Hate and Other Enthusiasm” deals with hypocrisy, megalomaniac tendencies and many other moral and social issues plaguing society just before World War 2.

Broun was often satirical about society, corporate rise as well as snobbism and the showing off tendencies of many people of the time. As such, in his novel, he writes tongue in cheek guides which are supposed to educate people on things such as how to be successful when courting women, how being god feels like as well as presenting the benefits of swapping newborns for better ones at the hospital.

Broun was of the opinion that journalists could right wrongs through their writings. This view can often be seen in his humorous stories which make up the novel. He carefully masks criticism through the use of hyperboles, metaphors and well-crafted humor. He depicts everyday life events through a prism which is meant to ridicule how we react when faced with the scrutinizing eyes of our compatriots.

Some stories may have the power to cheer while others may raise important questions about our role in the world. Having been married to the feminist Ruth Hale, he also adopted several of her views and expressed them in short stories such as Chivalry is Born. Other satirical works such as The Not Impossible Sheik, On Being God, Judge Krink and Altruistic Poker deal with megalomania and people intent on showing that they are better than others. Altruistic Poker is a fine example of social ridicule and how people are seen by their peers.

Pieces of Hate and Other Enthusiasms will certainly strike a few chords and provide readers with an insight into social issues seen by an American journalist.
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