Gonzo: The Life of Hunter S. Thompson

His was Stream of Consciousness

Decent fare, Gonzo was a mainstay for me in college inn the early 70's

"One hell of a trip!"

I was pleasantly surprised to find this book on the bargain rack for 8 dollars at my local B&N store. I couldn't believe it! Hard cover! What a find.
I had previously read/watched/enjoyed thoroughly Fear and Loathing and the Interviews book that I can't seem to remember the name of right now. Just recently I've started to delve into the magical, wisdom encrusted words of Hunter S. Thompson and he never fails to grab me by the proverbial balls.
In all honesty when I read the introduction penned by Depp I was almost moved to tears. I'm almost ashamed to admit it. That's not coming from someone who is easily sapped. Nor is that coming from someone who praises/worships Depp any time I can because he's some hotshot, good looking Hollywood actor. The guy can write. He dug deep and spewed his guts onto the page. A few people involved in this book did.
Right off the bat you can tell the kind of remarkable impact Mr. Thompson had on those around him. The personal, uncensored accounts of his life really piece together his personality and nature, I felt like I sat with him BSing for hours by the end of the book. The writing was very vivid and detailed. Only furthered is my admiration and understanding of Gonzo journalism and the monster behind it. In my eyes he can really do no wrong. Sure he has his faults and made mistakes but after all, he's only a human.
Gonzo did a great job of making Mr. Thompson relatable and in turn extremely inspirational. Maybe it isn't completely impossible obtaining what you really want out of life. Mr. Thompson fulfilled his dreams while being uncompromising, truthful and at times completely nuts. The man had audacity of sharp steel and broken glass. I could go on for hours but I won't.
I agree with many reviewers here that Jann Wenner came off as bitter and even judgmental. As if the score was never really settled between him and Mr. Thompson. Sure this book is supposed to offer you a view of every aspect including the damning but Wenner took that ball and ran with it. I think he was milking for reaction/money at times. But if you take a look at what Rolling Stone magazine has become you can't blame Wenner for being a little frustrated and resentful. Maybe Mr. Thompson's career is a source of envy for him.
At any rate, pick this book up. I couldn't put the book down and spent many a late night reading only to wake up early and drag my ass to work. Well worth it though.
Long live the words of Hunter S. Thompson.

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