Brief Encounters

Conversations, Magic Moments, and Assorted Hijinks

By: Dick Cavett

Narrated by: Dick Cavett

Length: 8 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

A 2016 Grammy nominee for Best Spoken Word Album

Dick Cavett is back, sharing his reflections and reminiscences about Hollywood legends, American cultural icons, and the absurdities of everyday life.

In Brief Encounters, the legendary talk show host Dick Cavett introduces us to the fascinating characters who have crossed his path, from James Gandolfini and John Lennon to Mel Brooks and Nora Ephron, enhancing our appreciation of their talent, their personalities, and their places in the pantheon. We tag along as Cavett spends an afternoon with Stan Laurel at his modest apartment in Los Angeles, spars with Muhammad Ali at his training camp, and comes to know a young Steve Jobs - who woos him to be Apple's first celebrity pitchman. He also offers piquant commentary on contemporary politics, the indignities of travel, the nature of comedy writing, and the utter improbability of being alive at all.

On his talk show, Cavett welcomed the leading figures from film, music, theater, literature, comedy, sports, and politics and engaged them in conversation that made viewers feel that the discussion was taking place in their own living rooms. Jimmy Fallon, the new host of The Tonight Show, has called him "a legend and an inspiration" and has written a foreword that makes clear the debt that today's talk show hosts owe to Dick Cavett. Brief Encounters opens the door on how Cavett's mind works and what it is like to live in his world.

To spend a few minutes or an hour or even a whole evening with Dick Cavett is an experience not to be missed, and now there's no reason to deny yourself. Settle in, and enjoy the conversation!

©2014 Richard A. Cavett (P)2014 Macmillan Audio

back in the old days

I love his style as an interviewer and I enjoyed the listen, he is so funny and particular tp the English language

A great book to listen to while you walk or drive

While I enjoyed the entire book, I thought that the essays and biographical elements of the first half were slightly superior to the stories which Cavett relates in the second half of the book.
But I would counsel anyone who has an interest in the era of television which Dick Cavett speaks about, to read this book. Or to listen to it.

What a treat

Brings back when my mom and I sat in the kitchen and watched his show each night on our 13 in B&W tv on top of the refrigerator while my father sat by himself in the family room watching God knows what on the giant color tv.

Cavett at his best

What did you love best about Brief Encounters?

Cavett's style. He obviously enjoys being the smartest guy in the room. He has had a fascinating life and he shares it in perfectly sized doses.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Cavett is Cavett.

Which character – as performed by Dick Cavett – was your favorite?

He did them all very well.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No- you don't want to use it up too quickly.

Any additional comments?

His sniping at conservatives- Cheney, Palin, Limbaugh- comes off as petty and dated.

So many people so many great stories!

It will keep you very entertained the whole time you are listening to Dick Cavett!

"Brief Encounters" a strong sequel to "Talk Show"

"Brief Encounters" is an intricate yet, entertaining use of language. Much in the same way that "Talk Show" was before it. This follow-up effort is quite enjoyable. Mr. Cavett remains a wonderful storyteller.

However, "Brief Encounters" is not quite as enthralling as "Talk Show. "There are plenty of interesting stores found in "Brief Encounters." one such story is about the time which Mr. Cavett spent with Muhammad Ali.

"Brief Encounters" retains the emotional impact of its predecessor. Mr. Cavett discusses subjects as: the country's calamity of gun deaths, alcoholism, mental illness, personal friends whom have died. The book of course, is filled with uplifting memories about both is famous friendships and childhood ones alike. I would say"Brief Encounters" is a must for anyone whom enjoys intelligent humor and honesty about the lived experience!

More please

Mooooooooooooore pleeeeeeeeeeease they said I required more words but more please is all I could think.

Cavett..once again brilliant

Dick Cavett seems to be one of the brightest, self effacing and interesting people on this earth. His stories are chock full of funny and interesting stories from his funny and interesting life. His wit and brilliance shine through in his performance and content in every spoken word (true about all his books). If he hadn't led the life he has he would have been an incredible professor...he has a way of capturing ones attention and imagination and you find yourself hanging on every word. To spend an evening in his company must be a very memorable and pleasent experience. Thank you for sharing.

An Excellent Read!

I really lovced this memoire. So witty! I need to listen to more of Dick.

Good in ya ear

As I listen with earbuds. Use to be headphones. Dick is ..... Dare I say it.. Good in your ear..jeeze