Episode 26.1 - Fear And Loathing on The Campaign Trail '72 by Hunter S Thompson

This week we’re discussing the first half of Fear and Loathing On The Campaign Trail of ‘72 by every adolescent boy’s favorite author Hunter S. Thompson. Unlike other ephemeral teenage interests, Hunter S. Thompson ages like a block of cheese - it gets stinkier but also objectively better.

We follow the drug-addled, big drinking, screed writing Thompson on his journey ywith the Democratic Primary campaign of 1972 - the year Richard Nixon sought re-election. We are introduced to hacks and idealists, empty suits and serious statesmen, press secretaries and press wizards, hitch-hikers and dope fiends. Thompson’s punchy writing breaths life into what he describes as one of the most boring, mind smoothing gauntlets that one can be subjected to. But have no fear, if you want to know the drug habits of the candidate’s entourage, how Thompson had an informed discussion on football with Nixon, the strategy of the underdog McGovern, or what kind of slime ball Hubert Humphrey is - Thompson’s your guy. Will McGovern win the primary and defeat President Nixon? We all know the answer, but with Hunter as our guide it’s worth it to find out with him.

Hunter S. Thompson was a writer for Rolling Stone and author of many books. He founded the style of journalism known as “Gonzo”, distinguished by its stream of consciousness and immersion in the subject at hand. He was a weird and interesting guy and the only good way to get to know him is through his books.

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