I haven't actually finished this.

It's an enormous book that contains scores of articles.

However, it's a safe bet that I won't be finishing it anytime soon.

This is because it's the kind of thing that I will be dipping in and out of for years.

That's why I'm putting it on the read shelf now.

Otherwise, I'll be currently-reading it forever.

It's not the subject matter that interests me.

Many of the articles are very specific to the time and place in which they were written.

I'll admit that my knowledge of (fairly) recent American history and culture isn't all that extensive.

But Thompson's writing is just so inspiring.

I could read his take on absolutely anything and enjoy it.

This book will forever be my bible of journalistic inspiration and originality.

It's a treasure trove of unique perspectives and engaging writing that I know I'll return to again and again.

Even though I haven't completed it yet, I can already see the value it holds and the impact it will have on my own writing.

I look forward to exploring its pages further in the years to come.

This was the very first HST collection that I delved into.

Even though he was typically talking about people and situations that I had only the vaguest understanding of, I became completely captivated.

The writing was truly brilliant.

I re-read the chapters on Watergate.

There is a remarkable sense of immediacy in gonzo journalism, as if one is right there in the thick of things.

For instance, HST discovered that it was more convenient to follow the hearings on TV in a nearby bar than to be in the actual committee room in the Capitol.

And I can easily picture that being the case.

It gives one a unique perspective on events that might otherwise seem distant and abstract.

The vivid descriptions and the unfiltered approach make it a truly engaging read.

Overall, this collection has left a lasting impression on me and has made me eager to explore more of HST's work.

While this book is a compilation of other writings, it truly stands as a remarkable "best of" collection of Hunter S Thompson's works.

I have never come across anything in my life that had so few dull moments and yet was filled with an abundance of unforgettable stories. Just as the title implies, there are tales of the shark hunt, the experience of going through customs with a significant amount of drugs, the excitement of attending the Kentucky Derby, and the exploration of the cultural shift from the spirit of the 60's to that of the 70's.

Hunter was indeed a one-of-a-kind, wild journalist. His style and approach were truly unique, and it is highly unlikely that we will ever witness the likes of him again. However, there is no denying that his writing is a true embodiment of the spirit of great American journalism. It captures the essence of an era, the adventures, the chaos, and the unbridled passion that defined Hunter S Thompson and his work.

The Great Shark Hunt, a collection that contains excerpts from Thompson's golden age as a journalist and culture critic, offers an unsparingly accurate assessment.

It presents a hilarious but unreliable narrator observing the various pillars of American greatness crumbling around him. Arranged out of chronological order, it sometimes shows the sad later years of countercultural figures before introducing them in earlier-written articles, deepening the sense of wistful dejection that surprisingly recurs in Thompson's otherwise merciless writing.

Split into four sections, the second, focusing on Nixon and Thompson's coverage of the McGovern campaign, hits hardest as he is at the height of his powers facing his greatest foe. Nearly every article is indispensable, from the Rum Diary-era South American travelogues that showcase his developing voice and conscience to post-Nixon ramblings dealing with the falls of personal (Oscar Acosta) and national (Muhammad Ali) figures, and the reluctant stirrings of hope in a goober farmer ex-governor from Georgia with presidential aspirations.

Thompson inspired countless imitators who wanted to get drunk and write Beat prose passing as journalism. However, despite the run-on intensity of these often lengthy articles, there is always the clear focus of a true journalistic writer who uses nouns and verbs over adjectives to conjure his addled fever visions. This gives his pieces a propulsive punch that makes even a 30-page tribute to a half-mythologized buddy engaging and purposeful.

Just as powerful as when I first read it over thirty years ago.

My overwhelming thought as I read one insane and insightful piece after another is that we sure could use his voice in this insane moment of history we are caught in now.

It's truly remarkable how relevant his words still are.

His unique perspective and fearless approach to writing could bring a much-needed clarity and sanity to the current chaos.

Would love to see HST in his prime take on the Orange Clown and his enablers.

His scathing critiques and unfiltered opinions would no doubt make for some fascinating reading.

He had a way of cutting through the bullshit and getting to the heart of the matter, and that's something we could really use right now.

His work was a wake-up call then, and it remains so today.

We need more voices like his to help us make sense of the world we live in.

"Best book about hunting sharks since Moby Dick" is a captivating title that immediately grabs the attention of readers interested in the thrilling world of shark hunting. This book likely delves deep into the adventures, challenges, and perhaps even the mysteries that come with the pursuit of these magnificent yet fearsome creatures. It may explore the techniques used by hunters, the history of shark hunting, and the impact it has had on both the sharks and the environment. With vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, it transports the reader into the heart of the action, making them feel as if they are right there on the hunt. Whether you are a shark enthusiast, a lover of adventure, or simply looking for a good read, this book is sure to satisfy. It offers a unique perspective on a topic that has fascinated humans for centuries and is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of sharks.

The original article is not provided, so I can't rewrite and expand it specifically. However, I can give you a general example to show you how it can be done.

Let's assume the original article is: "I like reading. It is a great way to relax and gain knowledge."

The rewritten and expanded version could be:

I have a deep passion for reading.

It is not just a hobby for me; it is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Whenever I pick up a book, I am instantly transported to different worlds and introduced to a plethora of new ideas and perspectives.

Reading allows me to relax my mind, unwind, and forget about all the stress and worries.

Moreover, it is an excellent way to gain knowledge.

Whether it's a novel, a biography, or a self-help book, each one offers valuable insights and lessons that can enrich my life.

It broadens my horizons, enhances my vocabulary, and sharpens my critical thinking skills.

In conclusion, reading is truly a remarkable activity that brings joy, relaxation, and knowledge into my life.

I came into this book with only Terry Gilliam's brilliantly surreal film adaption of Thompson's most famous book Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas as a reference point. Sure, I kind of knew what Gonzo Journalism was, but had never read any.

However, as I delved into Thompson's work, I discovered that beneath his drink, drug, and occasional firearm-fuelled antics, there lurks a brilliant observational mind. Even if it only decides to skulk into the sunlight at noon after a breakfast of Bloody Marys, his insights are profound. There's a reason why he was a Rolling Stone journalist for so long, and it's fascinating to see his style evolve across these pages.

From a wet-behind-the-ears rookie uncovering the darker side of the South American economy, to the high-flier sharing cars and planes with presidents and rubbing shoulders with Ali, Thompson's writing is always both informative and entertaining. There are some truly exceptional fly-on-the-wall moments featuring Nixon and Carter, as well as a healthy dose of drug-addled antics along the way.

So, strap in, drop out, and get ready to enjoy the wild ride that is Hunter S. Thompson's journalism!

Pure Gonzo Madness

Hunter S. Thompson's unique style of journalism, known as "gonzo journalism," was a wild and unfiltered exploration of the human experience.

His writing was characterized by a frenzied, first-person narrative that plunged the reader headlong into the chaos and excitement of his subjects.

Gonzo journalism eschewed traditional objectivity in favor of a more subjective and immersive approach. Thompson would insert himself into the story, becoming an active participant rather than a detached observer.

This style allowed him to capture the raw emotions and energy of the events he covered, but it also made his work controversial.

Some critics accused him of being too irresponsible and self-indulgent, while others praised his honesty and authenticity.

Regardless of one's opinion, there is no denying that Hunter S. Thompson's gonzo madness had a profound impact on the world of journalism and literature. His work continues to inspire new generations of writers and thinkers to break free from the constraints of convention and embrace their own unique voices.

A compendium of "journalistic" stories in the style of Hunter Thompson.

Some of them are spectacularly funny, like the one that gives the book its name. One in particular talks about the Mexican vindicatory movement of the 70s, parallel to the black movement of the same moment. It is very interesting.

However, other stories do not have much appeal.

If I could, I would give it 3.5 stars.

This collection of stories offers a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. The ones that are entertaining and engaging truly capture the essence of Thompson's unique style. They draw the reader in and keep them hooked from beginning to end.

On the other hand, the less interesting stories may leave the reader feeling a bit disappointed.

Overall, it is a decent collection that has its highs and lows.

It will appeal to fans of Thompson's work and those who enjoy reading about different social movements and countercultures.

While it may not be a perfect 5-star book, it still has enough to offer to make it worth a read.

Hunter S. Thompson will be remembered as a remarkable journalist and a true wordsmith, I hope.

His unique style of writing, often referred to as "gonzo journalism," was a revolutionary approach that combined personal experience, vivid description, and a fearless pursuit of the truth.

Thompson's work was not without controversy, as his preoccupations with drugs and violence sometimes overshadowed his writing. However, I believe that these aspects of his life were tangential and should not mire down and distract from the staggering achievement of his writing and moral sense.

His books, such as "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" and "Hell's Angels," are not only entertaining but also offer profound insights into the human condition and the social and political issues of his time.

Hunter S. Thompson was a complex and fascinating figure, and his contributions to journalism and literature will be remembered for years to come.

By far, this is the best Hunter book I have ever read. With a unique blend of levity and wit, Hunter cuts right to the core of society's problems, most of which still persist today.

The book is divided into four parts, covering his writing from the 1960s to the 1970s. Here are some of my favorite passages.

In "Fear and Loathing in the Bunker" (The New York Times, 1974), Hunter and the milkman have an understanding on a need-to-know basis. Neither of them is among the needy, and they are both happier just following orders. George Orwell had a phrase for this. Neither he nor Aldous Huxley had much faith in the future of participatory democracy. The Watergate hearings revealed not only the arrogance and criminality of Nixon's henchmen but also the totalitarian character of his administration. It's disturbing to think how close we came to Orwell's 1984.

"Democracy Dies in Peru, but Few Seem to Mourn its Passing" (National Observer, August 27, 1962) highlights the fact that Peru has no democratic tradition, and any attempt to introduce it will face violent opposition. The people who need democracy don't understand it, and those who do don't need it. If the Alliance for Progress wants democracy to become a reality in Peru, it's in for a rough ride. In Peru, the will of the people is subject to the veto of the ruling class. Democracy is seen as chaos that will loosen their grip on power.

"Fear and Loathing at the Super Bowl" (Rolling Stone #128, February 15, 1973) tells the story of Hunter spending a week in Houston for Super Bowl VIII. Inspired by The Book of Revelations, he gives a sermon to the entire hotel at 6 am. It's a crazed and futile effort to explain his complex relationship with God, Nixon, and the National Football League. Al Davis speaks passionately about "Environmental Determinism." Betting in football involves strong elements of personality and psychic leverage. Hunter hopes he never again succumbs to the madness of going to a cold and rainy stadium on a Sunday afternoon.

"Strange Rumblings in Aztlan" (Rolling Stone, #81, April 29, 1971) starts with the police receiving an "anonymous report" that a man with a gun is inside the Silver Dollar Café. Their handling of the Salazar case raises doubts about the wisdom of allowing cops to walk around loose on the street. The anglo power structure wants to make a point: don't mess around, or you'll pay the price.