Turns about Town

"Turns About Town" by Robert Cortes Holliday is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The essays explore various aspects of urban life, often with a humorous or reflective tone, capturing the quirks and peculiarities of city living. Among the themes, the author seems to delve into the experience of hotel life and social engagements, discussing the nuances of New York and other cities with a light, observational humor. The opening of "Turns About Town" introduces readers to the author's appreciation for hotels, particularly the rituals and nuances associated with hotel stays. Holliday describes the different characters encountered in hotels, including guests and service staff, painting a vivid picture of life within those walls. He shares anecdotes that highlight the often absurd situations that arise, whether it’s navigating the complex etiquette of hotel services or the amusing personalities of hotel regulars. This sets the tone for the rest of the collection, where the author promises more likeness of the modern world through a comedic lens, exploring other facets of urban living in subsequent essays.