Status Updates From United States: Essays 1952-...

Writing Plays for Television: (3/52): I've added one more essay from this collection to read list. Published in 1956, Vidal writes about societal rejection of the novel in the face of TV. I have also learned that my favorite quote of all time comes from this piece: "I am at heart a propagandist, a tremendous hater. . .positive that there is no. . .problem that could not be solved if people would. . .do as I advise."

Political Melodramas (2/51): This one was of particular interest as I've recently seen Vidal's film The Best Man. This essay is viciously sardonic. Labeled an alarmist and exaggerator for his pessimistic view of American politics, Vidal takes great pleasure in saying "I told you so" in the face of Watergate and it is deeply entertaining. Less witty and more raw yet enjoyable all the same.

I've selected 51 of these essays to read in no particular order. The first is titled "Theodore Roosevelt: An American Sissy." Vidal's characteristic tendency to prod and provoke challenges the reader before you even begin. One of America's most celebrated and memorable presidents is rightfully, however, criticized in aggressive fashion for his imperialism and the macho personality Vidal determines is a façade. Fun.