Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Nonfiction Reccomendation, Politics: Fear and Loathing: On the Campaign Trail '72

It would not be an exaggeration to say that I consider Hunter S. Thompson to be one of the greatest authors of the 20th century. In his heyday in the late 60's and early 70's there was no writer who better attacked the norms and ideas of the day. His pioneering style of 'Gonzo' journalism, in which the journey and author are every bit as critical to the story as the actual subject.
Let it suffice to say that Thompson did not think highly of Nixon


For any follower of politics, this book is a must read. It gives more insight into the madness of our electoral system than any other document I have ever come across and does so in incredibly entertaining style. Thompson makes no excuses for his views and prejudices against certain candidates while providing an amazing ground eye view of the full fury of an American political campaign. Illustrated throughout by the unique Ralph Steadman, it provides a fascinating look into the heart of the political animal.