The Complete Race War in High School Readings - Part 2/2

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.

In 'The Armies of the Night', Norman Mailer recounts his participation in the October 1967 March on the Pentagon, weaving a narrative that combines elements of journalism and fiction. The book explores themes of protest, identity, and the clash between different social groups during the Vietnam War era. It is celebrated for its innovative style, which blends personal experience with historical context.