Frank Sullivan (writer)

Frank Sullivan (February 22, 1892 – November 19, 1976) was an American humorist and writer, best known for his contributions to The New Yorker magazine. He was a master of light verse, essays, and parodies, often focusing on the absurdities of modern life and the pretensions of language.

Sullivan was born in Saratoga Springs, New York, which frequently served as the setting for his humorous observations. He began contributing to The New Yorker in 1929 and remained a regular contributor for several decades. His work was characterized by a gentle wit, sharp observation, and a meticulous attention to detail, particularly in his satirical portraits of small-town life and popular culture.

Sullivan's notable works include collections of his essays and verses, such as Innocent Merriment (1942), A Rock in Every Snowball (1946), Frank Sullivan Through the Looking Glass (1950), and Sullivan Bites News (1964). He also wrote a biography of Judge Henry Hilton, a prominent figure in Saratoga Springs history.

Sullivan's humor was often subtle and understated, relying on irony and wordplay rather than outright slapstick. He had a particular fondness for parodying literary styles and linguistic fads. His writings offer a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of American life, seen through the lens of a perceptive and humorous observer.