Woody Allen: The Insanity Defense

Woody Allen: The Insanity Defense

Random House

Comprising the classic bestsellers Getting Even, Without Feathers, and Side Effects, this definitive collection of comic writings is from a man who needs no Introduction. Really - this book has no Introduction.

The Insanity Defense reveals many sides of Woody Allen as he holds forth on the most human of urges ("Why does man kill? He kills for food. And not only for food: frequently there must be a beverage"); reflects on death ("I don’t believe in an afterlife, although I am bringing a change of underwear"); and notes the effect on history wrought by trick chewing gum, the dribble glass, and other novelties. There is also an inspiring story of the futile race to beat Dr.More...

Comprising the classic bestsellers Getting Even, Without Feathers, and Side Effects, this definitive collection of comic writings is from a man who needs no Introduction. Really - this book has no Introduction.

The Insanity Defense reveals many sides of Woody Allen as he holds forth on the most human of urges ("Why does man kill? He kills for food. And not only for food: frequently there must be a beverage"); reflects on death ("I don’t believe in an afterlife, although I am bringing a change of underwear"); and notes the effect on history wrought by trick chewing gum, the dribble glass, and other novelties. There is also an inspiring story of the futile race to beat Dr. Heimlich to the punch: "The food went down the wrong pipe, and choking occurred. Grasping the mouse firmly by the tail, I snapped it like a small whip, and the morsel of cheese came loose. If we can transfer the procedure to humans, we may have something. Too early to tell."

All Woody Allen fans will cherish this uproarious treasury - and those who don’t enjoy The Insanity Defense are just plain crazy.

Stories

 TimeFavorites

[He] hated reality but realized it was still the only place to get a good steak.

Page 214

Earn money by taking surveys! International offer!

If only God would give me some clear sign! Like making a large deposit in my name at a Swiss Bank.

Page 117

Can we actually know the universe? My God, it`s hard enough finding your way around in Chinatown.

When we lose twenty pounds [...] we may be losing the twenty best pounds we have! We may be losing the pounds that contain our genius, our humanity, our love and honesty.

The universe is merely a fleeting idea in God`s mind - a pretty uncomfortable thought, particularly if you`ve just made a down payment on a house.

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