The Autobiography of a Clown is a memoir of Isaac Frederick Marcosson, a journalist and author who was also known for his humorous writings. The book follows his life from childhood to adulthood, describing his experiences in the circus, as well as his travels around the world. Marcosson provides insights into the lives of circus performers and their daily struggles, as well as his own personal struggles with identity and purpose. Throughout the book, he reflects on his own life and the meaning behind his work as a clown, offering a unique perspective on the nature of humor and the role it plays in our lives.
Isaac Frederick Marcosson (1876-1961) was an American author and journalist. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, and attended the University of Louisville before beginning his career as a journalist. Marcosson wrote for several newspapers, including the New York Evening Post and the New York Times. He also served as a correspondent for the Times during World War I and covered many important events of the era, including the Paris Peace Conference and the Versailles Treaty negotiations. In addition to his work as a journalist, Marcosson was also a prolific author. He wrote several biographies, including books about Woodrow Wilson, Thomas Edison, and J.P. Morgan. His book about Edison, "The Life and Times of Thomas Edison," was particularly successful and became a bestseller. Marcosson was known for his engaging writing style and his ability to tell compelling stories about the people he wrote about. He was also a popular speaker and lecturer and was in high demand for public appearances. Throughout his career, Marcosson received several awards and honors for his work. He was a member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters and was awarded the Litt.D. degree from the University of Louisville in 1943. Isaac Frederick Marcosson died in 1961 at the age of 85. He is remembered as an important figure in American journalism and literature and for his contributions to the field of biography.