American writer and humorist, known for his Southern demeanor and commentary on the American South. Although he spent his early career as a newspaper sports writer and editor, becoming the sports editor of the Atlanta Journal at age 23, he is much better known for his humorous newspaper columns in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He was also a popular stand-up comedian & lecturer.

Grizzard also published a total of twenty-five books, including collections of his columns (e.g. Chili Dawgs Always Bark at Night), expanded versions of his stand-up comedy routines (I Havent Understood Anything Since 1962), and the autobiographical If I Ever Get Back to Georgia, Im Gonna Nail My Feet to the Ground. Although much of his comedy discussed the South and Grizzard’s personal and professional lives, it was also a commentary on issues prevalent throughout America, including relationships between men and women (e.g. If Love Were Oil, Id Be About a Quart Low), politics, and health, especially heart health.

He made us laugh and think at the same time. Indeed, during his lifetime, Lewis Grizzard heard himself described as this generations Mark Twain, one of the foremost humorists in the country and a Faulkner for plain folks by the national press. What he was, without a doubt, was a masterful storyteller, stand-up comedian, syndicated columnist and best selling author.

Lewis Grizzard Museum:

New Georgia Encyclopedia entry: