Extremely interesting interview with a hugely perceptive author (it kills me that he was born in 1969 - his work is 100% research!). I recommend everyone listen and enjoy (when you have time, it's 25 minutes long).
"This American story is told in four sections, corresponding to four elections: in 1966, 1968, 1970, and 1972. Politicians, always reading the cultural winds, make their life's work convincing 50 percent plus one of their constituency that they understand their fears and hopes, can honor and redeem them, can make them safe and lead them toward their dreams. Studying the process by which a notably successful politician achieves that task, again and again, across changing cultural conditions, is a deep way into an understanding of those fears and dreams — and especially, how those fears and dreams change."
'Nixonland' Explores America in Flux : NPR << click "Listen Now" to hear.
I'd like to ask that no one post who hasn't read the book or listened to the interview.
For those who think this is going to be more lefty crap - it's not, at all. "[For his book on the Goldwater era,] Perlstein...drew rave reviews from William Kristol and William F. Buckley on one hand and the Village Voice and the rabidly Democratic netroots on the other." "William F. Buckley describes Perlstein as 'a first rate writer [who] has a streak of conscience that keeps him from hamhandling conservative ideas.'”
Chicago Reader
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