United States by Gore Vidal Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of United States
Book Review: Successful "essays"
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a remarkable collection of essays. They cover literature, politics and history and show Vidal at his best. My favorites include his examination of the Kennedy Family (entitled The Holy Family) which though dated still shows the importance of showmanship be it the construction of a religion or a political dynasty. Vidal also looks at General Grant and surveys the American scene. Another gem is his examination of the books on the New York Times Best Seller list in the early seventies and what they tell us about American tastes and the declining craft of the writen word (Vidal believes it to be largely cinematic). There really are too many topics to cover properly in only 1,000. All of the essays are stimulating and thought provoking whether one agrees with the ideas expressed or not. I urge anyone who enjoys reading well-written prose to get this fascinating volume and discover the joys within its covers.Book Review: The essays tell you more about Gore Vidal than his subjects.
Summary: 5 Stars
I understand better the definition of an elitist after reading these essays. The writing is delightful, and fortunately, easily understood by anyone with at least an eighth grade education.Book Review: United States by Gore Vidal
Summary: 5 Stars
I was very satisfied with the service I received and the excellent condition of the book.Book Review: a treasure chest of gossipy fun
Summary: 5 Stars
this collection of essays is a gold mine of wit, humor and gossip about the past century's most interesting Americans - writers, politicians, celebrities, they're all here. Vidal never spares the rod, and this collection represents the best years of his essay writing. He's gleefully reveals uncomfortable details and gossip about friends and foes alike. Taken together these essays make a sort of memoir from a writer and public intellectual who moved in the highest Washington political circles AND New York literary circles during the mid-twentieth century. Who knew Tennessee Williams complimented JFK on his ass? Or that Anais Nin never learned how to pronounce the word 'yacht'? Or that Eleanor Roosevelt put flowers in her toilet?
Beyond this, this book represents a lifetime of experiences and impressions from a grand old liberal cultural warrior. He was a VERY early and lifelong supporter of LBGT rights - speaking out against discrimination against homosexuals in the 1960's and 70's!
He kindly remembers those he loved and respected, Tennessee Williams, Eleanor Roosevelt, Edmund Wilson; while boldly and entertainingly skewering those he didn't (Ernest Hemingway, Norman Podhoretz, Theodor Roosevelt). When Vidal tears into a fat, juicy, and stupid target like Barry Goldwater you can feel his bloodlust. He reminds me of Mencken: the rich and inviting prose followed by the hilariously vicious ad hominem. He makes the eagle scream time and again.
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