James Young worked in advertising in the 1940s; his eloquent diaries provide historical value, insights into how the ad industry worked in wartime, and engaging entertainment.
From the outset, Mr. Young demonstrates eclectic tastes; interspersing quotes from scripture and classical literature between anecdotes of his work. World War Two brought a raft of challenges for advertisers; rationing and government regulations introduced to oversee the economy meant selling products to households and businesses alike changed vastly. Rising to the challenge, Young keenly relishes surmounting the challenges foisted upon his trade.
While aspects of this diary date to their time, the entries remain entertaining for their quick-wittedness. Young's observations of clients and practice are never gossipy or trite; rather he tries to describe events accurately and with internal thoughts, be it the conception and sizing of a given ad display to client negotiations. Wartime made the job harder, with routine processes impeded by the heavy demands of the military; to earn their keep, ad men had to be creative and resourceful in the face of scarcity.
As an account of war from a domain rarely seen, or as a historic glimpse into marketing of yore, The Diary of and Ad Man is an interesting and accessible read.