William E. EllisCritiques

A rather mixed biography of the humourist of once-great renown. Ellis does a decent job of telling Cobb's story, and does give one an impression of a writer that worked frantically to get money to feed a lavish lifestyle (one that had to be reduced in later years, especially after the Wall Street Crash of 1929). The author, however, seems to over-emphasize the racial angle of Cobb's work. Yes, Cobb was a product of his time (post-bellum Kentucky), and yes, there were such characterizations in his work. However, few humourists generally stand the test of time. Even Will Rogers has largely faded from view; indeed, in the final paragraphs of the book, Ellis notes other comedians and humourists that have faded from view. Changing tastes did catch up with Cobb, but that may have been more an element of his story-telling. Indeed, there are contradictions in Cobb's career, noted by the author, but put down (rather patly) to a paternalistic view of African-Americans. The over-emphasis on the racial angle (note I say "over" emphasis, because there is a grain of truth in what is said) is what ultimately put me off this book. I'm going to go back and read some more Cobb and make my own judgements.½