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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Cool, Calm & Contentious summary
Merrill Markoe
Brief summary
Cool, Calm & Contentious by Merrill Markoe is a witty and candid memoir that takes readers on a humorous journey through the author's life, offering sharp observations and entertaining anecdotes along the way.
Table of Contents
Cool, Calm & Contentious
Summary of key ideas
The Beginnings of a Comedic Life
In Cool, Calm & Contentious, Merrill Markoe takes us back to her early days, growing up in New York City. She shares how her family dynamics, particularly her difficult relationship with her mother, shaped her sense of humor and her approach to life. Markoe's childhood experiences and her early struggles with self-esteem and body image provide the backdrop for her future comedic career.
Markoe's journey takes her to California where she lands a job as a writer for a fledgling late-night show called Late Night with David Letterman. Here, she gets to exercise her comedic chops, contributing to the show's unique brand of humor. She shares some behind-the-scenes stories, offering a glimpse into the making of the iconic show and the creative process that went into its success.
The Dog Days of Comedy
Markoe's narrative then takes an interesting turn as she delves into her love for dogs. She introduces us to her pack of dogs and describes how they became an integral part of her life and her comedic material. She shares the joys and challenges of living with multiple dogs, each with its own distinct personality, and how they inspired her to write her first book, What the Dogs Have Taught Me.
Despite the light-hearted tone of her dog stories, Markoe doesn't shy away from addressing more serious issues. She discusses her struggles with depression and the role her dogs played in helping her cope during difficult times. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the profound impact animals can have on our emotional well-being.
Relationships and Reflections
In the middle part of Cool, Calm & Contentious, Markoe turns her attention to her personal life, particularly her romantic relationships. She shares candidly about her experiences with narcissistic partners, the challenges of dating in midlife, and the societal pressures women face in maintaining their youth and desirability. Despite the hardships, Markoe maintains her signature wit, using humor as a tool for self-reflection and growth.
Markoe also delves into the topic of aging, offering her humorous take on the physical and emotional changes that come with getting older. She discusses society's unrealistic beauty standards and the pressure women face to maintain their youthful appearance. Through her personal anecdotes and insightful observations, she encourages readers to embrace their age and find humor in the process of growing older.
Embracing Life's Eccentricities
In the latter part of the book, Markoe returns to her comedic roots, offering a collection of humorous essays that cover a wide range of topics. From her unique perspective on the concept of time to her hilarious take on self-help books, Markoe's sharp wit and insightful observations shine through. She also shares some of her quirky yet practical life hacks, such as using her dog's hair to knit sweaters and repurposing old shower curtains as drop cloths.
Throughout Cool, Calm & Contentious, Merrill Markoe's irreverent humor and candid storytelling keep us engaged. She doesn't shy away from addressing challenging topics, but she approaches them with a refreshing blend of honesty and humor. In the end, Markoe's journey from a challenging childhood to a successful comedic career serves as an inspiring reminder that embracing life's eccentricities with humor can lead to a truly fulfilling and contented existence.
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What is Cool, Calm & Contentious about?
Cool, Calm & Contentious by Merrill Markoe is a witty and insightful collection of essays that delves into the author's personal experiences and observations. With humor and honesty, Markoe explores topics such as relationships, family dynamics, and societal norms, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of human behavior. It's a thought-provoking and entertaining read that will leave you both amused and contemplative.
Cool, Calm & Contentious Review
Cool, Calm & Contentious by Merrill Markoe (2011) is a witty and insightful exploration of modern-day life and relationships. Here's why this book stands out:
- Offers sharp observations on everyday absurdities, making readers laugh and think simultaneously.
- Explores the complexities of human behavior with humor and honesty, bringing refreshing authenticity to the narratives.
- The book's engaging anecdotes and relatable situations ensure a fun and stimulating read, promising no dull moment.
Who should read Cool, Calm & Contentious?
Readers who enjoy humorous and candid personal essays
Individuals looking for a relatable and entertaining exploration of everyday life
Those interested in the intersection of comedy and introspection
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Cool, Calm & Contentious FAQs
What is the main message of Cool, Calm & Contentious?
The main message of Cool, Calm & Contentious is to navigate life's ups and downs with humor and wit.
How long does it take to read Cool, Calm & Contentious?
Reading Cool, Calm & Contentious takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is Cool, Calm & Contentious a good book? Is it worth reading?
Cool, Calm & Contentious is worth reading for its entertaining take on everyday challenges.
Who is the author of Cool, Calm & Contentious?
The author of Cool, Calm & Contentious is Merrill Markoe.
What to read after Cool, Calm & Contentious?
If you're wondering what to read next after Cool, Calm & Contentious, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda