Oscar Hammerstein II wrote lyrics and librettos for American musical theatre, most famously in collaboration with composer Richard Rodgers. Published editions of Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I and The Sound of Music preserve scripts and lyrics that integrate songs closely with character and plot. Earlier work with Jerome Kern includes Show Boat, whose book and lyrics treat race, marriage and changing American entertainment across several decades. Hammerstein's writing is theatrical and character-led, designed to be performed rather than read as standalone poetry, with songs often advancing the story instead of interrupting it. His work fits musical-theatre scripts, song lyrics, Broadway history and American drama. Read more Less