Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robert Caro joins the discussion, reflecting on his iconic biography of Robert Moses. He delves into the book's enduring legacy and its relevance to today's political landscape. Caro addresses the dramatic decline of Moses, exploring themes of ambition, power struggles, and personal loss. The conversation also touches on the complex dynamics between urban planning and public interest, highlighting how Caro's meticulous research has shed light on pivotal historical figures and their impact on modern society.
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Robert Moses' Park Dream
Robert Moses wanted to build a park in Flushing Meadows, Queens.
It was initially a massive ash and garbage dump, described as dystopian.
insights INSIGHT
Clashing Visions
Moses' focus on a permanent park clashed with the temporary nature of the 1964 World's Fair.
This difference in vision caused problems from the start.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Lavish Spending
Moses spent lavishly on the fair, hiring Pinkerton agents with white gloves and ascots.
He gave generous contracts to cronies and overspent the budget.
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people talk about what they do all day and how they feel about what they do
Studs Terkel
In 'Working,' Studs Terkel conducts in-depth interviews with people from diverse occupations, ranging from gravediggers to studio heads. The book provides a snapshot of American working life in the early 1970s, highlighting the emotional and physical aspects of work. It explores themes of job satisfaction, the search for meaning, and the impact of work on individuals' lives. The interviews are edited to preserve the voices and stories of the subjects, offering a powerful and original perspective on work and its significance in human experience.
The Power Broker
Robert Moses and the Fall of New York
Robert Caro
This book is a monumental biography of Robert Moses, who was the single most powerful man in New York City and State during his time. It explores how Moses accumulated and wielded power, shaping the city through his public works projects, including highways, bridges, and parks. The book delves into Moses's early life, his idealistic beginnings, and his transformation into a powerful figure who dominated New York's politics without ever being elected. It also highlights the social and environmental impacts of his projects and his eventual fall from power. The biography is renowned for its detailed and nuanced portrayal of power dynamics in urban politics[2][4][5].
The Ungovernable City
Douglas Yates
The Ungovernable City: The Politics of Urban Problems and Policy Making is a book that delves into the complexities of urban governance, focusing on the political aspects of urban problems and the processes of policy making. Published in 1978, it provides insights into the challenges and dynamics of urban policy during that era.
Eminent Victorians
Lytton Strachey
Published in 1918, 'Eminent Victorians' is a groundbreaking work by Lytton Strachey that challenged the traditional Victorian biographical style. The book consists of four biographical essays that use literary devices such as paradox, antithesis, hyperbole, and irony to portray its subjects. Strachey's approach was irreverent and witty, aiming to puncture the myths surrounding these Victorian icons. While Florence Nightingale is treated more sympathetically, the other subjects are depicted in a less-than-flattering light, revealing their flaws and human frailties. The book was a significant departure from the conventional biographies of the time and had a profound impact on the genre[1][2][4].
Public Works a Dangerous Trade
Public Works a Dangerous Trade
Moses R
In 'Public Works: A Dangerous Trade,' Robert Moses reflects on his extensive experience in urban planning and public works. The book delves into the intricacies and challenges of managing large-scale infrastructure projects, drawing from Moses's own experiences in transforming New York City's landscape through the construction of parks, highways, bridges, and other public facilities.
This is the twelfth and final episode breaking down the 1974 Pulitzer Prize winning book, The Power Broker by our hero Robert Caro.
We’ve waited until the evening to see how splendid the day has been, and for this final installment, there was only one guest truly worthy of the last slot: Robert Caro. This time, he discusses the book’s lasting legacy, parallels to today, and how he decided on the last line of the book.
This week, Elliott and Roman also cover Chapters 47 through 50, discussing the major story beats and themes.
To those of you who turned every page with us: thank you.
If you finished The Power Broker with us (or know someone who did), get the 99PI Power Broker challenge coin to commemorate your achievement! Visit 99pi.org/store to get the challenge coin and other 99PI merch.
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