‘You're Wrong' With Mollie Hemingway And David Harsanyi, Ep. 134: Confirmations

A Man in Full is a satirical novel that delves into the lives of several characters in Atlanta, Georgia, during the late 1990s. The story centers around Charles 'Cap'm Charlie' Croker, a wealthy real estate developer facing financial ruin. The novel explores themes of masculinity, racial dynamics, and the conflicts arising from wealth and power. It also introduces Conrad Hensley, a young man in prison who discovers Stoic philosophy, which becomes a recurring theme. The narrative critiques American society, particularly the societal issues of contemporary Atlanta, including boosterism, expansion, and racial tensions. Wolfe's writing style combines humor and social commentary, reflecting his journalistic approach to fiction[1][2][3].

The Bonfire of the Vanities is a drama that centers on three main characters: Sherman McCoy, a WASP bond trader; Larry Kramer, a Jewish assistant district attorney; and Peter Fallow, a British expatriate journalist. The novel explores the complexities of New York City in the 1980s, delving into themes of ambition, racism, social class, politics, and greed. It was originally conceived as a serial in the style of Charles Dickens and ran in 27 installments in Rolling Stone before being published in book form. The story follows the characters through their interactions and conflicts, highlighting the superficial values and hypocrisies of the city's elite and the underlying social tensions of the time.