I doubt that anyone reading this Blog needs an introduction to his writings (Myron is my favorite of his novels) or his opinions ( this recent interview should bring you up to speed on that score)
The Truly Devoted might want to get a gander at his film credits, and those of his favorite actor.
Even more exciting is the fact that he’ll be shortly seen in this docudrama, doubtless playing himself (needless to say, his ideal role.)
But I’m a sentimental man, and I can’t help but feeling something more than cheery Birthday greetings are in order in light of the fact that on September 25th Howard Austen died.
Here’s a passage from Fred Kaplan’s Vidal biography, which Vidal doesn’t like and in partial revenge inspired the memoir Palimpsest. But it’s a really neat passage, Gore, so hush up and read:
And so it began, and continued until September 25, 2003. Vidal often said the secret of their significant otherness was the fact that they didn’t have sex. But as any gay person knows (yes I know you hate “gay,” Gore — tough shit), sex is only one part of any relationship.
Enter (stage left of course) the shade of Michel Foucault:
Had they had the opportunity would Gore have married Howard? I can see the former’s scowl and hear the latter’s laughter. And I also think of Pascale Greggory asking Bruno Todeschini “How would you describe our bond?” in Those Who Love Me Can Take the Train.
As far as I’m concerned any terms will do. Except “partner.” Jeez do I hate partner! I’m a man, not a law firm.
And so is Gore Vidal.
Happy Birthday.
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Happy Birthday Gore Vidal
Excerpt: David Ehrenstein tells us that yesterday was Gore Vidal’s 78th birthday. In an ideal world, he would have been president….
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Tracked: October 4, 2003 10:11 AM