Buckley: The Life and Revolution That Changed America – A Journey Through Complexity
William F. Buckley, Jr. is a figure that has long intrigued me, so when I learned that Sam Tanenhaus was finally releasing Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America, I was eager to dive into this much-anticipated biography. Initially announced years ago, Buckley’s life story had become somewhat of a phantom in the book world, leading to countless searches for updates. Now, with its hefty 1,040 pages, the book is a doorstop of historical and political exploration, ideal for anyone grappling with the complexities of modern conservatism.
Tanenhaus’s authority as a biographer is evident as he meticulously chronicles Buckley’s journey from a young, charismatic intellectual to a formidable titan in American conservatism. The author shines in detailing Buckley’s early accomplishments and innovative ventures, particularly with National Review. It’s fascinating to see how quickly Buckley’s bold ideas evolved to shape political discourse—especially with the backdrop of significant events such as the 1968 conventions and his notorious debates with Gore Vidal, which are recounted vividly. It is clear that Buckley was a man of contrasts, engaging yet often infuriating.
However, Tanenhaus delivers his subject with a dose of critical skepticism that occasionally leaves a bitter aftertaste. His narrative wanders into uncomfortable territory—most notably the chapters on race, where the slightest mention of Buckley’s evolving views feels like a missed opportunity for deeper context. Instead, it almost gets buried among pages dedicated to figures like Robert Welch and the John Birch Society, creating an impression that Tanenhaus is more focused on showcasing Buckley’s missteps than his multifaceted contributions to political thought.
The writing style is both engaging and somewhat uneven. You can feel Tanenhaus grappling with his reluctance to wholly glorify Buckley; the narrative sometimes feels like an apology for what Buckley stood for, instead of allowing the layers of his personality to unfold naturally. Yet, in the midst of dissection, there are striking moments, especially in the chapter "Seductions," where Buckley’s chaotic relationship with finances plays out with equal parts tragedy and dark humor. It’s almost reminiscent of David Lough’s portrayal of Winston Churchill, revealing a man trapped not just by his ideology but by his own fiscal follies.
Tanenhaus doesn’t hold back from exploring how Buckley got duped by Edgar Smith, a story that is as compelling as it is tragic. This intricate thread speaks volumes about Buckley’s character but perhaps deserves a more substantial resolution than it gets. Reflecting on these moments, one can’t help but wonder—are the moral failings more important than the man’s ideas?
In conclusion, Buckley: The Life and Revolution That Changed America is a monumental work that straddles the line between biography and critique. While Tanenhaus doesn’t paint his subject in the most flattering light, the book prompts readers to ponder the complexities of political life and the enigmatic nature of Buckley himself. If you’re curious about the roots of contemporary conservatism, or simply intrigued by the contradictions that make human beings fascinating, this biography is a must-read. Personally, it’s left me questioning not just Buckley’s legacy but the very nature of political discourse—an endeavor worth every page.
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