#jovial bob stine

[paperbackpurgatory]

Jovial Bob Stine's 101 Silly Monster Jokes (1986)

Are you prepared for a frightfully good time?

[mabelsguidetolife]

it feels like forbidden knowledge to know that rl stine once wrote deeply unfunny joke books under the name of ‘jovial bob stine’

[charlie-grusin]

"The Haunted Mask" (1995) : Movietalk # 02

“The Haunted Mask” is the story of a girl so tormented by her peers she neglects the true loves of her life and kills herself. She parades her severed head out on the streets as she allows herself to become a different beast – a being of malicious mischief with a greater urge for destruction from within and without – only to then renounce that creature persona from reality, embracing instead the one who could ever love back. It’s a suburban gothic survivor story with an ending you can expect from good ol’ Jovial Bob, that finest trick-meister of the horror trade (besides, it’s Halloween – what could go wrong with a hearty laugh?).

Kathryn Long is a force to be reckoned with. Where else could one find a performance so involved at such a young age that not only goes for long stretches of time waging havoc with throat-crushing gremlin voices and latex running deep in the eyelids but who also suggests (no, insists!) on eating live worm sandwiches not once, nor twice, but on eight-to-twelve takes? (Not even How to Eat Fried Worms could claim that!!) But what Long was able to achieve was not made solely on high theatrics: it’s like she really lived Carly Beth, pushing Stine’s original tale further towards its truth-inside-the-lie that as you want to reach through the screen and hold her and comfort her and reassure her that this too shall pass, you can’t help but get the feeling that you could also be her in those moments of vulnerability – that perhaps you were once Carly Beth… or that you are still very much the seemingly lonesome little girl lost in that hallway house of mirrors – that you can’t help but cringe and squirm whenever the monster takes full control because if experience has taught us anything it’s that it really is all too easy to make the inversion of the self and turn vile from the hurt and/or the fear of being hurt. It’s all too close, all too familiar… and it’s all the more reason she should be inducted to the Child Horror Star Hall of Fame pronto if such a thing is christened.

Every now and then it’s imperative that a Goosebumps story (or anything adjacent to that) must include in some form or another a creepy shopkeeper and/or salesman, and while the “Tall Thin Man” definitely matches the head on the bill it is not with the touch of the usual; the role as written by José Rivera and delivered by Colin Fox give this character a menace all the more heightened by the fact that it is ultimately a tragic one (he is a man doomed by admission to repetitively shred himself down to the marrows of his darkened soul), yet that isn’t to say director Timothy Bond didn’t manage to invoke any of that unbearable weight on his behalf; even with the occasionally shaky production levels the series offered as its norm, it’s quite impressive he still managed to bring his A game to TV movie cinematic heights as it is surprising he only did like, what, three two-parters(!?) – you gotta love that slow pan to the face in the mirror, that inspection of the abnormous skin devoid of music: “Very soon it will join the other failures on the shelf!” – and with much lighter affairs such as the “Monster Blood” special (which had compromised the series’ inability to adapt the other Bert I. Gordon-esque escapades of that green viscous substance with a mini-Airport movie on the fly), I can’t help but find it possible that Bond and crew may’ve also single-handedly spoiled the lot of us just by how (dare I say it) elevated their efforts seem in comparison. Episodes like “The Girl Who Cried Monster” or “The Haunted House Game” or even some of the other two-or-three-parters still hold up to this day on their own merits, of course… but damn. Damn.

Most Goosebumps stories are pure three-pages-a-thrill adventures where the monsters are either some big bad and hungry goop monster, a mummy, or “hey what if lawn gnomes were kinda bastards you know”, but when they getcha like this they getcha good. Viewer, listener, reader beware, you’re in for more than a scare.

[vintage-tech]

If you remember this, you're old.

if you don't: Goosebumps creator R.L. "Jovial Bob" Stine had a regular gig producing Scholastic Books' magazine of the late 1970s to early 1980s, Dynamite, targetted to 4th-8th graders. (In high school you graduated to Bananas.)

[lovingdread]

oy

with apologies to Jovial Bob Stine

i'm so mad that my blogs can't just be about monster smut anymore. goddamned racists.

[unproduciblesmackdown]

fun when going like shoutout to [the central characters are children] in horror Inherent Win and being like "goosebumps for example as horror with children's pov for characters & primary audience alike. winning" then the other day actually listened to an interview w/ r.l. stine and first of all great b/c just like with the books it's like oh he's just continuously very funny to listen to. then he was saying like oh yeah i had terrible parents, anti role models examples of what Not to do, and the horrors of that are comedy to me really and it's like ah lmao. well no wonder goosebumps gets it (not all Ways A Constant Force Of Parental Authority Is Removed From A Child Main Character's Story (or is it??) is the same) and shoutout to jovial bob

[thelovelesslesbian]

rl stine is a childhood icon who does not disappoint, policy was only to get books you just bought signed and the bn people were adamant but I showed him my silent night book and he was like that’s what I’m here for! and signed it and talked to me about the character who is honestly an icon to me. jovial bob you are the best.

[writeleg1ant]

R.L. Stine Biography

R.L. Stine, born on October 8, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio, is an American novelist known for his horror books for children. He is best known for his Goosebumps and Fear Street series. Stine graduated from the Ohio State University in 1965 and worked as an editor for Scholastic Books. He started his writing career with humor books under the pseudonym Jovial Bob Stine. In 1986, he published his first horror novel, "Blind Date," which marked the beginning of his successful horror writing career. Stine's books have sold over 400 million copies worldwide. Key Takeaways: - R.L. Stine is an American novelist known for his horror books for children. - He gained success with his Goosebumps and Fear Street series. - Stine graduated from the Ohio State University and started his writing career with humor books. - His first horror novel, "Blind Date," was published in 1986. - Stine's books have sold over 400 million copies worldwide.

Early Life and Education

R.L. Stine, born on October 8, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio, had an early passion for writing that would shape his successful career as an author. Growing up in Bexley, Ohio, he found solace in storytelling and began typing captivating tales and joke books on an old typewriter he discovered in his attic. Stine's educational journey led him to the renowned Ohio State University, where he pursued his love for literature. In 1965, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary to bring his imaginative stories to life. During his time at Ohio State University, Stine also served as the editor of The Sundial, a humor magazine that showcased his creative flair and wit. This experience honed his ability to engage readers and solidified his passion for writing.

Career Beginnings and Humor Books

After graduating from college, Stine moved to New York City to pursue his writing career. He started writing humor books for children under the name Jovial Bob Stine and created the humor magazine Bananas. Bananas, published by Scholastic Press, was targeted towards teenagers and was a popular humor magazine during its publication from 1975 to 1984. Stine served as the editor and writer for Bananas and contributed to various recurring features in the magazine. "I initially started my career in writing humor books for children. It was during this phase that I created the iconic Bananas magazine, which became a hit among teenagers. It was an exciting time, and I enjoyed serving as the editor and writer for Bananas, contributing content that brought smiles to young readers' faces." - R.L. Stine

Entry into Horror Writing and Fear Street Series

In 1986, R.L. Stine made a bold shift in his writing career and ventured into the realm of horror. He released his first horror novel, "Blind Date," marking the beginning of his journey as a horror writer. Embracing the genre with enthusiasm, Stine captivated readers with his ability to evoke fear and suspense. Three years later, in 1989, Stine introduced the world to the chilling and captivating Fear Street series. Designed specifically for young teens, these horror stories became an instant hit and left readers hungry for more. The debut installment, "The New Girl," set a precedent for the bone-chilling tales that would follow. Stine's unique storytelling style, combining heart-pounding fear with relatable characters, solidified his reputation as a master of children's horror writing. Throughout the Fear Street series, Stine unleashed a multitude of sinister plots, gripping readers with each twist and turn. Filled with suspense, unexpected encounters, and the ever-looming presence of fear, these books became a favorite among young readers. Fear Street Series BooksYear of Publication"The New Girl"1989"The Surprise Party"1989"The Overnight"1989"Missing"1989"The Wrong Number"1990

Goosebumps Series and Television Adaptation

In 1992, R.L. Stine introduced the highly successful Goosebumps series, specifically targeted at children aged 8 to 11. The first book in the series, "Welcome to Dead House," was published in 1992 and quickly became a global phenomenon. Goosebumps captivated young readers with its unpredictable plots, plot twists, and cliff-hanger endings, keeping them engaged and eager for more. The overwhelming success of the book series paved the way for a television adaptation called "Goosebumps," which aired from 1995 to 1998. During its run, the television show brought Stine's terrifying characters to life, further amplifying his popularity among enthusiastic fans.

Other Series and Adult Novels

In addition to Fear Street and Goosebumps, R.L. Stine has expanded his repertoire with various spin-off series that offer readers new and exciting stories to delve into. Among these spin-off series are Give Yourself Goosebumps and The Nightmare Room, which provide thrilling adventures and suspenseful plotlines. In addition to his success in the children's horror genre, Stine has also ventured into writing novels for adults. These adult novels showcase his versatility as a writer and his ability to captivate readers of all ages with his compelling storytelling. Some of these adult novels include: - Superstitious: A chilling tale that combines elements of horror and mystery, taking readers on a journey through a small town plagued by supernatural occurrences. - Eye Candy: A gripping psychological thriller that explores the dark side of online dating and the dangerous consequences that can arise from virtual connections. - Red Rain: A haunting narrative that follows a bestselling author's encounter with a pair of ominous twins, leading to a series of horrifying events that threaten to consume her life. Stine's foray into writing novels for adults demonstrates his ability to create suspenseful narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats, regardless of age. His dedication to weaving captivating stories has contributed to his enduring success as an author. R.L. Stine's Spin-off Series and Adult Novels Spin-off SeriesAdult NovelsGive Yourself GoosebumpsSuperstitiousThe Nightmare RoomEye Candy Red Rain

Awards and Recognition

R.L. Stine's talent and dedication have earned him numerous awards and recognition throughout his illustrious career. His contributions to the world of children's horror literature have been celebrated by both readers and industry professionals. Let's take a look at some of the prestigious honors he has received: Champion of Reading Award In 2002, R.L. Stine was honored with the Champion of Reading Award from the Free Public Library of Philadelphia, acknowledging his significant impact on promoting literacy and fostering a love for reading among children. Disney Adventures Kids' Choice Award Multiple times, Stine has been the recipient of the Disney Adventures Kids' Choice Award for Best Book-Mystery/Horror. This award showcases the immense popularity and appeal of his books among young readers. Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards Stine's outstanding storytelling skills and terrifying tales have also been recognized at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, further solidifying his influence and success in the genre. Thriller Writers of America Silver Bullet Award In 2007, Stine received the Thriller Writers of America Silver Bullet Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the thriller and horror genres. Horror Writers Association's Lifetime Achievement Award In 2014, R.L. Stine was honored with the Horror Writers Association's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. This esteemed recognition highlights the significant impact he has made on the horror genre throughout his career. R.L. Stine is highly regarded as a master of children's horror literature, and his books have consistently topped bestseller lists, captivating readers around the world. With over 400 million copies sold, his work continues to inspire and thrill audiences of all ages. Award/AchievementYearChampion of Reading Award2002Disney Adventures Kids' Choice Award for Best Book-Mystery/HorrorMultiple yearsNickelodeon Kids' Choice AwardsMultiple yearsThriller Writers of America Silver Bullet Award2007Horror Writers Association's Lifetime Achievement Award2014

Film Adaptations and Cameo Appearances

Stine's popular book series, Goosebumps, has been adapted into films. In 2015, the film Goosebumps was released, starring Jack Black as a fictionalized version of Stine. Stine himself made a cameo appearance in the film, playing a teacher named "Mr. Black." The success of the first film led to a sequel, Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween, in 2018, where Stine had another cameo as Principal Harrison. In addition to film adaptations, Stine's works have inspired other media, such as TV series and 4D movie-based attractions. FilmYearCameo AppearanceGoosebumps2015Teacher "Mr. Black"Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween2018Principal Harrison

Recent Work and Return to Fear Street

In recent years, R.L. Stine has continued to captivate readers with his storytelling prowess by writing and publishing new works. One notable milestone in his career was the revival of the Fear Street series. In 2014, he brought back the chilling tales of Fear Street with the novel "Party Games." This return to Fear Street brought a fresh wave of suspense and horror for both Stine's longtime fans and new readers discovering his works. In 2017, Stine further delighted his audience with the release of "Give Me a K-I-L-L," another thrilling installment in the Fear Street series. The return to Fear Street allowed Stine to once again showcase his ability to create suspenseful narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the dark secrets lurking within the pages. Stine's recent work reaffirms his status as a master of children's horror and solidifies his legacy as one of the most enduring authors in the genre. With every new release, he continues to leave a lasting impact on readers, young and old, who eagerly devour his captivating stories. Discover the spine-tingling world of Fear Street and experience the gripping tales that have made R.L. Stine a household name. Brace yourself for the return to Fear Street and prepare to be enthralled by the relentless twists and turns that await. Recent Fear Street NovelsPublication YearParty Games2014Give Me a K-I-L-L2017

Stine's Influence and Legacy

R.L. Stine has made a lasting impact on the genre of children's literature through his captivating stories that strike the perfect balance between suspense and safe scares for young readers. His ability to create engaging narratives has gained him a dedicated readership among both children and adults, solidifying his position as a beloved author. Stine's books have become iconic in the realm of children's horror, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with generations of readers. His imaginative storytelling, coupled with his knack for creating suspenseful narratives, has made him the master of children's horror writing. With each page-turn, Stine's influence can be felt as young readers are drawn into his worlds filled with monsters, ghosts, and thrilling adventures. His books have not only entertained but also inspired countless readers to explore the depths of their imaginations and discover the joy of reading. Stine's ability to leave a lasting impact on young readers is a testament to his prowess as an author. His stories have introduced generations of children to the wonders of horror literature, igniting their curiosity and expanding their literary horizons. Through safe scares and relatable characters, Stine has created a gateway into the world of reading for young readers around the world.

R.L. Stine's Impact on Young Readers

R.L. Stine's books have had a profound impact on young readers, introducing them to the world of horror literature in a safe and entertaining way. His books have sparked a love for reading in many children and have encouraged them to explore other genres of literature. Stine's ability to create relatable characters and suspenseful narratives has made his books a gateway into the world of reading for countless young readers. With his captivating storytelling, R.L. Stine has captivated young readers and inspired their imaginations. Through his books, children have been able to experience the thrill of horror while still feeling safe within the pages. The Goosebumps and Fear Street series, in particular, have become staples in children's horror literature, providing thrills and chills that are age-appropriate. Stine's impact on young readers extends beyond the world of horror. His books have not only entertained but also instilled a love of reading in many children. The suspenseful plots and relatable characters have kept kids engaged and eager to discover what happens next. By introducing children to the joy of reading through his captivating stories, Stine has paved the way for them to explore a wide range of literature. "R.L. Stine's books opened up a new world of reading for me. I could feel the thrill and excitement with every page-turn. His books made me fall in love with reading." - Emily, avid young reader Stine's impact on young readers goes beyond entertainment; it also nurtures their creativity and imagination. With every twist and turn in his stories, he sparks curiosity and encourages young readers to think critically. Through his captivating narratives, Stine has helped develop the minds of countless children while fostering a sense of wonder and exploration. Development of Critical Thinking Skills By immersing themselves in Stine's stories, young readers are exposed to complex plots and unexpected twists. This challenges them to think critically, analyze clues, and make predictions about what might happen next. The process of deciphering the secrets behind each story enhances their problem-solving skills and encourages them to think outside the box. Furthermore, Stine's books often delve into themes of friendship, bravery, and overcoming fears. Through his relatable characters, young readers learn valuable life lessons and develop empathy for others. Stine's ability to explore these deeper themes within a horror context allows children to navigate complex emotions in a safe and controlled environment. Effects of R.L. Stine's Books on Young Readers ImpactDescriptionIntroduction to Horror LiteratureStine's books serve as an entry point to the genre, allowing young readers to experience the thrill of horror while still feeling safe and entertained.Love for ReadingStine's captivating storytelling inspires a passion for reading in many children, making them eager to explore other books and genres.Critical Thinking SkillsBy navigating the twists and turns in Stine's plots, young readers develop problem-solving abilities and learn to think critically.Emotional DevelopmentStine's relatable characters and exploration of themes like friendship and bravery help young readers develop empathy and navigate complex emotions. Overall, R.L. Stine's impact on young readers is immeasurable. His ability to captivate, entertain, and inspire young imaginations has left a lasting impression on generations of children. Through his books, he has not only introduced children to the world of horror but also ignited their love for reading and nurtured their creativity.

Conclusion

R.L. Stine's career as an author has been nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to engage and captivate young readers with his horror books has made him one of the most successful authors in children's literature. Stine's journey began with humor writing, but it was his foray into horror that truly defined his legacy. From the Fear Street series to the iconic Goosebumps books, Stine's stories have been beloved by millions of readers worldwide. His storytelling prowess, coupled with his talent for creating suspenseful narratives, has made him a master of the genre. Through his books, Stine has been able to introduce children to the world of horror in a safe and entertaining way, igniting a love for reading in many young hearts. With over 400 million books sold and numerous awards to his name, R.L. Stine's contributions to children's literature are truly remarkable. His stories continue to resonate with readers of all ages, and his impact on young readers is undeniable. Stine's ability to balance scares with relatable characters and engaging plots has left an indelible mark on the genre, and his legacy will continue to inspire and thrill readers for generations to come.

FAQ

When and where was R.L. Stine born? R.L. Stine was born on October 8, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio. What is R.L. Stine known for? R.L. Stine is known for his horror books for children, particularly the Goosebumps and Fear Street series. What did R.L. Stine study in college? R.L. Stine graduated from the Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. What type of books did R.L. Stine write before becoming a horror writer? Before becoming a horror writer, R.L. Stine wrote humor books under the name Jovial Bob Stine. What was the first horror novel written by R.L. Stine? R.L. Stine's first horror novel was "Blind Date," published in 1986. What are some of R.L. Stine's most popular series? R.L. Stine's most popular series include Fear Street and Goosebumps. Has R.L. Stine won any awards? Yes, R.L. Stine has received numerous awards, including the Champion of Reading Award, Disney Adventures Kids' Choice Award, Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, Thriller Writers of America Silver Bullet Award, and Horror Writers Association's Lifetime Achievement Award. Have any of R.L. Stine's books been adapted into films? Yes, R.L. Stine's Goosebumps series has been adapted into films, with the first film released in 2015 and a sequel in 2018. Is R.L. Stine still writing books? Yes, R.L. Stine continues to write and publish new works, including the revival of the Fear Street series. What is R.L. Stine's impact on children's literature? R.L. Stine's books have had a significant influence on children's literature, introducing young readers to the world of horror in a safe and entertaining way. How has R.L. Stine impacted young readers? R.L. Stine's books have sparked a love for reading in many children, encouraging them to explore other genres of literature. What is R.L. Stine's lasting legacy as an author? R.L. Read the full article

[spongey445]

Goosebumps Series 2000-Return to HorrorLand

Hello, Spongey here. Goosebumps Series 2000 may have tried to do some new things but that doesn’t mean Jovial Bob was against going back to old wells. We did get two Slappy stories but outside of that we only had one proper sequel. R.L. Stine and sequels tend to go together like Evan and Monster Blood but Scholastic needed to cash in so here we are. Today we have one that has been a long time…

[nonbinaryphilochs]

Transcript if you don't want to deal with the paywall:

On its face, the 1968 Democratic National Convention bore a striking resemblance to the one kicking off Monday: Party members gathered in Chicago after the sitting president announced he wouldn’t seek reelection and endorsed his vice president.

But this time, don’t count on a prominent singer getting arrested for escorting a live pig through downtown Chicago to serve as a presidential candidate.

Folk singer Phil Ochs was one of the first protesters arrested during the tumultuous 1968 convention when he hauled in a pig named “Pigasus” as the presidential nominee of the “Yippies.” As activist Jerry Rubin began a nominating speech, police swooped through the crowd of several hundred people.

“The pig and seven supporters were quickly placed in a police van and driven off,” the New York Times reported. Ochs (pronounced “Oaks”), Rubin and the five others were sent to jail for disorderly conduct. The 145-pound pig was held at an animal shelter, the Times said, where he ���had been washed and was resting quietly.”

The theatrics set the tone for anti-Vietnam War protests in Chicago, where the Democratic convention will return this week to officially nominate Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden’s decision last month to step aside. The 1968 convention opened amid similar drama after Lyndon B. Johnson announced he wouldn’t seek reelection and backed his vice president, Hubert Humphrey.

That year, a barbed-wire fence was erected around the convention hall as more than 10,000 demonstrators flowed into the Windy City to voice their opposition to the deepening U.S. involvement in Vietnam under Johnson and to Humphrey’s support for the war effort. Bloody violence broke out as helmeted police officers swinging clubs bashed protesters in what a federal report later called a “police riot.” Television footage showed the fighting as bystanders chanted, “The whole world is watching.”

Ochs’s protest music provided a soundtrack for the unfolding events. He called himself a “topical singer.” His first album in 1964 was titled “All the News that’s Fit to Sing,” a twist on the New York Times slogan and his journalism studies at Ohio State University, where he was managing editor of the humor magazine, the Sundial. (A colleague was “Jovial Bob” Stine, better known later as R.L. Stine, the author of the best-selling “Goosebumps” series.) Ochs was a star performer at antiwar protests, singing his “Draft Dodger Rag.” (“I’m only eighteen, I got a ruptured spleen.”)

The singer/songwriter was friends with Rubin and Abbie Hoffman, whose Youth International Party, or Yippies, mounted a “Festival of Life” at the Democratic convention. Larger groups also mobilized demonstrations. Democratic Mayor Richard J. Daley vowed to maintain “law and order,” backed by Chicago’s 12,000 police officers and 11,000 Illinois National Guardsmen and U.S. Army soldiers.

On the convention’s second day on Aug. 27, Ochs joined comedian Dick Gregory at the Chicago Coliseum to rouse antiwar protesters at an “Unbirthday” party for Johnson. “The war is over,” Ochs sang. “It’s over, it’s over.” The crowd chanted, “No, no, we won’t go” and set draft cards on fire.

The troubadour dedicated his music to the memory of recently murdered Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy. He sang “I Ain’t Marching Anymore” in support of nominating antiwar Sen. Eugene “Clean Gene” McCarthy of Minnesota.

The next day, Ochs and beat poet Allen Ginsberg led a march from Grant Park toward the International Amphitheater, the convention site. “Marching eight abreast, arms linked and carrying pink and white daisies, the demonstrators sang, ‘We Shall Overcome,’” the Tampa Times reported.

Police stopped the marchers with tear gas. That day and into the night, clashes with police spread in front of the Conrad Hilton Hotel and into Grant Park across the street. During a nominating speech on the convention floor, Sen. Abraham Ribicoff (D-Conn.) blasted “Gestapo tactics on the streets of Chicago.” Daley shouted obscenities in response.

Around midnight, Ochs sang to protesters outside the Hilton with Peter Yarrow and Mary Travers of the folk group Peter, Paul and Mary. “Surrounding them were seven National Guard units, gas masks on, rifles loaded and held upright,” the Tampa Times reported.

The next day, after Democrats had nominated Humphrey, Ochs made a peace offering. “When Phil Ochs got onto the speaker’s stand, he almost transformed the rally in Grant Park into the same sort of prayer ses­sion he had inspired in the Coliseum,” the Village Voice reported. “Facing the soldiers, not the protesters, he begged ‘one man among you to lay down your arms and come over to our side.’ … Not a single soldier crossed over.”

Ochs returned to Chicago in 1969 to testify at the trial of eight antiwar activists facing riot charges brought by the new Nixon administration. Defense lawyer William Kunstler presented Ochs’s guitar and asked that he be allowed to sing “I Ain’t Marching Anymore.”

“I’m not prepared to listen to any songs,” responded Judge Julius Hoffman. But he let Ochs recite the lyrics, which conclude:

It’s always the old who lead us to the wars

Always the young to fall.

The convention’s outcome devastated Ochs. The cover of his next album, “Rehearsals for Retirement,” featured his photo and a tombstone reading:

PHIL OCHS

(AMERICAN)

BORN: EL PASO, TEXAS 1940

DIED: CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 1968

“After Chicago I was so depressed, so full of despair that I just went crazy and didn’t care anymore. I decided to do just what I wanted to do,” he told the New York Times in 1970, when he sang rock songs in Carnegie Hall dressed in a glittering golden suit, symbolizing his hero Elvis Presley. “His audience’s reaction to this was a rising barrage of boos and hisses,” the Times reported.

In 1975, Ochs revived his old songs to celebrate the end of the Vietnam War before 50,000 people in New York’s Central Park with Joan Baez, Harry Belafonte, Pete Seeger, Paul Simon and Odetta. By then, he was spiraling into decline. He had bipolar disorder and was drinking heavily. During a 1973 visit to Africa, a robber in Tanzania had choked him, damaging his vocal cords. Ochs took his life on April 9, 1976, by hanging himself at his sister’s home in Queens. He was 35.

Ochs never gained the fame of his friend Bob Dylan. But nearly 50 years after his death, his work maintains a strong following. His life was portrayed in the 2011 film “There But for Fortune,” and Lady Gaga sang his song “The War Is Over” at the 2016 Democratic convention in Philadelphia.

Former basketball star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wrote that the theme of his current Substack newsletter is “I’ve got something to say, sir, I’m gonna say it now,” a lyric by Ochs, “whose protest songs of the sixties still resonate today.” The third biography of Ochs — “That Man in the Gold Lamé Suit: Phil Ochs’s Search for Self,” by Jim Bowers — was published last year.

And Ochs immortalized his outrage about the 1968 Democratic convention in a song:

Oh, where were you in Chicago?

You know I didn’t see you there.

I didn’t see them crack your head

Or breathe the tear gas air.

The Washington Post has an interesting article about the 1968 Chicago Democratic National Convention featuring my uncle Phil Ochs & the story of how he and 7 Yippies were arrested while nominating Pigasus -- an actual pig -- for President.

https://wapo.st/46SPlOK

[a-typewritten-blog]

Do you have any favorite quotes about typewriters?

Some good ones are on this page. I have selected three, done artsy:

[80smovies]

[unproduciblesmackdown]

the "a surprise" -> "tense aftermath of any duration spent grappling with this disruption of expectations" -> "alright i've incorporated that into my understanding of everything going on out here" process that makes up the [two sides same coin] comedy/horror experience. something being at all good when it's beyond like "it would disrupt my expectations to think of being around someone who's disabled. perhaps poor. nonwhite. queer." as what's funny/scary. or merely taking that "well, Abnormality is unexpected, right" perspective and letting it encompass like voyeuristic indulgence in concepts of violence, which is actually extremely "normal" but it's also extremely "normal" to have it hidden & undiscussed so it can be claimed within the normality narrative to be a shocking outlier just like "trans people real?" or "i saw a neurodivergent person once"....meanwhile i'll go "wow that movie felt like a movie. delightful" and eventually be surprised and then immediately unsurprised like oh it was the [effective comedy] i noticed but i've seen and enjoyed this director's horror work before, that completely checks out. like how of course my man r.l. stine stumbled into horror after writing as jovial bob stine, and reading a goosebumps book as an adult makes me laugh fr like every page, b/c it's being silly. read a summary of a peepaw short story like well that sounds goofy but maybe in execution actually it pwns with any horror effectivity. like christine (if a car was evil) (just the one car instead of the one like "what if all cars were evil") (i haven't read it but it sounds hilarious yet people say it's good actually) (or the short story about if a commercial laundry press or whatever got a demon in it or something. that's very funny And trusted sources say it pwns actually)

[noneedtofearorhope]

ok so i was like 'wait a minute, eureekas castle wasn't from 1998' and i went to wiki to confirm and, uhh...

written by jovial bob stine

[yetanotherthriftblog]

ERMIGERD! WHAT R.L. STINE WAS DERRING BEFERR HE CREATED GERSBERMS!

[hodgman]

Judge John Hodgman Episode 522 is called HOT DRINK LEGEND and you can go to bit.ly/JJHO522 to hear about mint tea at the beer garden, parlor palms & money trees, and A WHOLE MOOD, the incredible new song by @tanyamorganmusic! You can try swiping on that hot issue of BANANAS (edited by Jovial Bob Stine) to see photos of @donwill holding a cute dog and such, but you will FAIL. Swiping is only enabled on the @judgejohnhodgman account, where you should be anyway! #JJHO (Link is also in my bio, where the links belong). (at Brooklyn, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/CQQ3S7mFw1H/?utm_medium=tumblr