#7128
Mentioned in 5 episodes
Democracy
Book • 2021
Set in Hawaii and Southeast Asia at the end of the Vietnam War, 'Democracy' follows Inez Christian Victor, the wife of Senator Harry Victor, and her complex relationship with Jack Lovett, a CIA agent and war profiteer.
The novel delves into themes of American politics, public and private life, the media, and image management.
It is narrated by Joan Didion, who presents herself as an acquaintance of Inez, adding a layer of personal and reflective storytelling.
The book is characterized by its fragmented structure, reflecting the anxiety and sense of helplessness of the modern age, and it critiques the superficiality of liberal politics and the disillusionment of contemporary life.
The novel delves into themes of American politics, public and private life, the media, and image management.
It is narrated by Joan Didion, who presents herself as an acquaintance of Inez, adding a layer of personal and reflective storytelling.
The book is characterized by its fragmented structure, reflecting the anxiety and sense of helplessness of the modern age, and it critiques the superficiality of liberal politics and the disillusionment of contemporary life.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 5 episodes
Mentioned by 
David French as the author of 'Democracy', which features a debate about Washington's character.
David French as the author of 'Democracy', which features a debate about Washington's character.
48 snips
The Hallway Interviews
Mentioned by 
Jeffrey Rosen in the context of a novel exploring the meaning of George Washington and Mount Vernon.
Jeffrey Rosen in the context of a novel exploring the meaning of George Washington and Mount Vernon.
42 snips
How The Greats Pursue Happiness | Jeffrey Rosen
Mentioned by 
Michael Zeldin as a book that advocates for mandatory voting to bring forth the ideas of enforced voting rights.
Michael Zeldin as a book that advocates for mandatory voting to bring forth the ideas of enforced voting rights.
36 snips
A Conversation with Jefferson Cowie, Author, Freedom’s Dominion: A Saga of White Resistance to Federal Power
Mentioned by Hilton Als in the context of Didion's later works and her exploration of women's experiences.
28 snips
Writer Hilton Als on Prince and ‘What Joan Didion Means’
Mentioned by Alissa Wilkinson as a novel she considers one of Didion's best, comparing it to the Great American Novel.
Alissa Wilkinson: Joan Didion and the American Dream Machine
