Washington, D.C.

by Gore Vidal

Other authorsJordi Arbonès (Translator)

Paper Book, 1985

Call number

813.54

Publication

Barcelona: Proa, DL 1985, 418 p., 20,5 cm (A Tot Vent; 236)

Description

Chronicle of the nation's capital from the New Deal through the McCarthy era, centering on a conservative Senator and his ambitious assistant, both of whom aspire to the Presidency.

User reviews

LibraryThing member tangborn

While this is not my favorite Gore Vidal novel, it has some interesting elements. The story is really about two politicians: The first is a fading southern conservative democrat, and the other is a rising you star from the same state. While this takes place during the Roosevelt (and early Truman)

administration, the novel could almost have been written about a later time. The younger politician takes much from Kennedy (for example his war hero status), but some could also come out of the life of Bill Clinton (who was probably unknown when the book was written). The big difference between this work and much of the other Vidal works, is the the small scale used here. There is no grand international (or imperial) setting. Much of the story takes place in the homes or offices of politicians.

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LibraryThing member dekan

This was an awesome book. i loved it. i'm actually going to read the whole series. i like the way he writes and he has a way of keeping you interested. of course i'm also a history freak and he is very reputable as far as that goes as well. going to read aaron burr next. excited. but don't worry

going through my giveaway books first, i read the hard copy when i'm charging the e reader.

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LibraryThing member aketzle

Boring. I don't get what's so great about Gore Vidal. This is my second attempt at his novels and both were seriously underwhelming. Blah. Didn't finish it.

LibraryThing member dbsovereign

Dirt in the capital. Really?! Vidal is perfect for this kind of historical novel.

LibraryThing member maryreinert

Set during the last years of FDR's presidency through that of Truman, this is a look at politicians and life in Washington DC and the intersection of politics and the press. James Burden Day is a powerful conservative senator, his assistant, Clay Overbury, is a charming up and coming handsome man

whose eye is set on the presidency. Blaise Sanford is a wealthy and powerful publisher with two children: Enid who marries Clay, and Peter who eventually edits a left-wing newspaper. Enid marries Clay but the marriage is filled with affairs and alcoholism. Divorce is not conducive to getting elected so Clay and this father-in-law Blaise attempt to confine Enid in an institution.

Peter comes across as a major character in the story touching the lives of all. The story is true Vidal style; humorous, cynical, and interesting with a backdrop of real characters. All in all, a good read about a time in American history that is not commonly seen in novels.

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LibraryThing member jonfaith

Consider me scorned. I thought Gore was sincere when he swept me away. Burr left me panting. It had balance, it was quick but solid. I nearly swooned.

Now? Washington D.C reeked of hyperbole; a kiss and tell where Vidal begs with glee, look at me. The novel is a settling of scores poised between

ludicrous coincidences. A moldy snapshot of cocktail parties and dirty deeds. It is a Jackie Collins for the Beltway. Now I'm not so sure. If Gore comes a knocking, I'll gird myself, stay dressed, but above all, remain polite.

There has been a lean towards a third star this evening. I don't think the addition would be fair.

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