#1264 - Timothy Denevi
NaN minutesEpisode #1264
Timothy Denevi is a professor in the MFA program at George Mason University and he is the author of "Freak Kingdom: Hunter S. Thompson's Manic Ten-Year Crusade Against American Fascism."
Watch the full episode of #1264 - Timothy Denevi.
Episode Timestamps
Discussing Hunter Thompson and His Influence on Writing
- The conversation starts with an introduction and equipment issues.
- The guest talks about writing a book inspired by Hunter Thompson called Freak Kingdom.
- They discuss how Thompson's method of writing resonates with comedians and the idea of understanding the rhythm of words.
Comparing Hunter Thompson's Influence on Politics with Donald Trump and Nixon
- Connections drawn between Thompson and Richard Nixon's speeches and plagiarism.
- Discussion on Nixon's approach to hiding his flaws compared to Trump's openness.
- Reflection on how Thompson and other journalists dramatize corrupt administrations.
Violence Against Journalists: Threats and Brutality
- Journalist beaten by police despite presenting press pass.
- Reflects on the state of democracy when political opponents and journalists are silenced.
- Impact on personal life - described as a traumatizing experience.
Polarization and Rhetoric in American Society
- Discussion with Proud Boys leadership highlights polarization.
- Concerns over the ease of inciting violence with rhetoric.
- Call for unity, communication, and non-violent solutions.
Hunter Thompson's Urban Struggles and Escaping to Woody Creek
- Spent time in San Francisco from 1964 to 1967, involved in countercultural activities
- Struggled in the city due to burnout from war protests and free speech movements
- Moved to Woody Creek for space and found more serene environment
Thompson's Intensive Writing Periods and Influence of Dexadrine
- Worked extensively from Kennedy to Nixon era, with use of Dexadrine
- Had a drinking problem and took Dexadrine for focus
- Sent Dexadrine to his editor for editing help, highlighting his intense writing dedication
Hunter S. Thompson and His Decade-Long Battle Against Nixon
- Thompson's struggle with alcohol and drugs dimming his once brilliant speech abilities.
- Heartbreaking incident during Nixon's resignation at the Connecticut Hilton.
- Thompson's deep-rooted hatred for Nixon dating back to Nixon's lies and deceptions.
Muhammad Ali: The Cultural Icon in the Ring
- Ali's iconic resistance to the Vietnam War, sacrificing prime years of his career.
- Thompson's profound respect for Ali's willingness to stand for his beliefs.
- Ali's fight against George Foreman becoming a symbol of defying expectations and oppression.
Hunter Thompson and the Muskie Campaign
- Thompson's unique journalism style combined fiction with nonfiction in a groundbreaking way
- Thompson created a rumor about Ed Muskie using Ibogaine, a self-examinary drug
- Thompson's reporting during the 1972 Democratic primary helped expose Muskie's flaws and changed public perception
Thompson's Encounter with Peter Sheridan and the Hell's Angels
- Thompson met Peter Sheridan, an interesting figure linked to Jerry Garcia and Hells Angels
- Thompson's involvement in the Muskie campaign incident influenced public perception and political outcomes
- Thompson's portrayal of the Hell's Angels in his book caused controversy within the group
Hunter S. Thompson's Encounter with the Hell's Angels
- Thompson's empathetic understanding of the Hell's Angels and their violent response to society's changes
- Sunny Barger and the Hell's Angels facing legal troubles and appreciating Thompson's representation
- Thompson's risky investigative approach and motorcycle accident with a friend
Thompson's Reflection on Life and Friendship with Nixon
- Deep insights on Thompson's reflective moments while riding a motorcycle at high speeds
- Thompson's unexpected friendship with Nixon over a shared love for football
- Importance of finding common ground and listening to opposing views in today's political climate
Hunter S. Thompson's Life in Aspen and Woody Creek
- Hunter S. Thompson moves to Aspen and Woody Creek in 1963, living there during the Kennedy assassination and starting his writing career.
- Thompson's friend, Peggy Clifford, a journalist, played a significant role in his life during this period.
- Thompson's experience in San Francisco, his reporting on Hell's Angels, and his eventual decision to return to Woody Creek.
Struggles and Efforts of Writing a Biography on Hunter S. Thompson
- Author's intense research and writing process, spending hours each day on research and narrative composition.
- Discussion on the impact of Adderall on writing and the author's personal experience with medication.
- Thompson's approach to writing and the toll it took on his health, reflecting on the challenges of balancing artistic pursuit and personal well-being.
James Salter - Literary Life and Influence
- James Salter, a prolific fiction writer and Aspen resident, wrote captivating novels until the age of 90.
- His work includes a memoir about his experience as a fighter pilot in the Korean war, emphasizing a lyrical and literary style.
- Comparisons are drawn between Salter's dedication to writing with efforts akin to Antonin Artaud and Thompson, highlighting the impact of substance use on productivity.
Hunter S. Thompson - Effort, American Dream, and Self-Destruction
- Thompson's work reflects on the toxic nature of the American dream and the destructive power of relentless effort.
- His fascination with self-destruction and its romanticized portrayal serve as a cautionary tale against the pursuit of unsustainable productivity through substance use.
- Thompson's observations on Hemingway's decline and eventual suicide underscore the clash between artistic narrative, societal change, and personal deterioration.
Ken Keesey and Hunter Thompson Meet the Hell's Angels
- Ken Keesey, author of 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', and Hunter Thompson meet at a gathering with the Hell's Angels in LaHonda, 1965.
- Thompson introduces Keesey to the Hell's Angels, who were known for their danger and volatility.
- Thompson witnesses unsettling and horrific scenes at the event, leading to a decision to stay away from drugs and journalism.
Thompson's Documentation and Legacy
- Thompson provides detailed audio notes of the event to Tom Wolfe, who uses them in his book 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test'.
- Thompson's ability to capture the horror and detail of the incident showcases his brilliance at a young age.
- The impact of the event leads Thompson to reconsider his career and emphasizes the lasting impact of his work on subsequent writers.
Thompson quotes and Social Media
- Rx Gonzo and the Jackalope are mentioned as great guys on Instagram
- Anita Thompson praised for doing a great job on Facebook related to Thompson's work
- Encouragement to read 'Freak Kingdom' for a lens on Thompson's work and to engage with his ideas