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Gore Vidal | Writer Against the Grain

Gore Vidal has been one of America's most distinct voices for more than half a century. The author of more than 20 novels, hundreds of essays, and several plays for screen and stage, Vidal is perhaps best known for the eloquent and witheringly sarcastic political commentatary that has made him a darling of the American left.<br><br> This recording from the 2009 Key West Literary Seminar consists of an hourlong conversation between Vidal and Jay Parini, his literary executor, a poet, biographer, and critic. Vidal discusses the influences on his work as a historical novelist, his views on the American educational system, and his admiration for American figures including Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The presidential contest between Barack Obama and John McCain is also discussed, while George W. Bush, serving his final week in office, is the target of particular scorn. Vidal's litany of complaints accuses the Bush administration of &quot;shredding&quot; the Bill of Rights, the Constitution, and basic tenets of the Magna Carta, while striving &quot;to make lying the national pastime.&quot;

Posted by Arlo Haskell on July 3, 2009 3:11 PM

Photos from Session One

Here's a selection of photos from Session One of the 27th annual Key West Literary Seminar. See more&ndash; by photographers Curt Richter, Oliver Parini, Michael Blades, and Nick Vagnoni&ndash; and upload your own photos on our facebook page. Gore Vidal...

Posted by Arlo Haskell on January 13, 2009 2:56 PM