The Rum Diary

Book • 1998
The Rum Diary is a novel written by Hunter S. Thompson, first published in 1998, though it was written in the early 1960s.

The story follows Paul Kemp, an American journalist who takes a job at a struggling newspaper in Puerto Rico.

The novel explores themes of disillusionment, corruption, and the search for identity in a tropical setting.

Thompson's vivid prose and satirical observations capture the atmosphere of the island and its inhabitants.

The book is a blend of autobiographical elements and fictional narrative.

It offers a glimpse into Thompson's early writing career and his evolving gonzo journalism style.

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Caleb Zakarin
as a work Hunter S. Thompson spent a lot of time trying to work through.
Kevin J. Hayes, "Understanding Hunter S. Thompson" (U South Carolina Press, 2025)

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