Simon, (Marvin) Neil 1927–

Simon is an American playwright and screenwriter who has enjoyed tremendous popular success. He is a master of the one-liner; however, many critics feel that this style reduces his characters to mere vehicles for the delivery of his jokes. His plays are excellent entertainments, but many critics contend he could do more serious work with his verbal talents and gift for dialogue. (See also CLC, Vol. 6, and Contemporary Authors, Vols. 21-24, rev. ed.)