When Magazines Mattered: Graydon Carter's Compelling Memoir
In his anticipated memoir 'When the Going Was Good,' legendary Vanity Fair editor Graydon Carter provides a riveting insider's perspective on the golden age of magazine journalism, capturing a transformative period in media history.
Carter, who helmed Vanity Fair for 25 years, offers readers an unprecedented glimpse into the magazine's inner workings, blending personal anecdotes with broader cultural observations. His narrative spans from the late 1980s through the early 2000s, a time when print media wielded significant cultural influence and magazines were more than just publications—they were cultural touchstones.
Key highlights of the book include:
- Intimate portraits of celebrity interactions and editorial decision-making
- Behind-the-scenes insights into landmark journalistic moments
- Reflections on the dramatic transformation of media in the digital age
Carter's writing is characteristically witty and incisive, combining journalistic precision with personal warmth. He doesn't merely recount events but contextualizes them, showing how Vanity Fair wasn't just reporting culture but actively shaping it.
While the book serves as a nostalgic tribute to print media's heyday, it also offers a nuanced critique of contemporary journalism's challenges. Carter acknowledges the digital revolution's impact without romanticizing the past, providing a balanced perspective on media's evolution.
For anyone interested in journalism, media history, or cultural commentary, 'When the Going Was Good' is an essential read—a masterful memoir that captures a pivotal moment in publishing history.
