GQ writer on wine, Jefferson, 1990's style conspicuous consumption, self-reinvention and the perils of obsession - great read
Benjamin Wallace brings together history, fraud, people with more money than sense and some really colorful characters and looks into the briefly fascinating world of really old wine enthusiasts. Detailing what looks - in hindsight - almost farcical - heated bidding for bottles of uncertain provenance as trophies, Wallace blends Jefferson's bring French wine to the young America
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Molly Ivins - A Rebel Life
very readable bio of TX journalist - great overview of political/culturtal changes in Texas and Houston
There is no doubt that authors Minutaglio and Smith - who make their personal ties to Ivins clear - venerate their subject - the warts and all treatment is credible, but the warts are really interesting. The narrative - near-debutante becomes back-room political reporter becomes national reporter becomes commentator - is compelling for the hard work that Ivins put in before she reached prominence and influence. Political commentary backed by solid reporting and experience. I'm not sure if today's media market could produce another like her.
There is no doubt that authors Minutaglio and Smith - who make their personal ties to Ivins clear - venerate their subject - the warts and all treatment is credible, but the warts are really interesting. The narrative - near-debutante becomes back-room political reporter becomes national reporter becomes commentator - is compelling for the hard work that Ivins put in before she reached prominence and influence. Political commentary backed by solid reporting and experience. I'm not sure if today's media market could produce another like her.
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