Some Faces in the Crowd - Softcover

Budd Schulberg

  • 4.02 out of 5 stars
    100 ratings by Goodreads
 
9780243382248: Some Faces in the Crowd

Synopsis

This book offers a satirical look at the rise of a charismatic, yet deeply flawed, folk singer named Lonesome Rhodes. From his humble beginnings as a small-town radio personality, Rhodes's folksy charm and knack for storytelling propel him to national fame. As his star rises, he becomes an influential figure, shaping public opinion on everything from politics to social issues. However, behind the facade of his aw-shucks persona lies a complex and often contradictory individual grappling with his own demons. The author skillfully weaves together themes of media manipulation, the cult of celebrity, and the erosion of authenticity in the pursuit of success. Lonesome Rhodes's journey serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and the seductive allure of fame. Through Rhodes's story, this book raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of truth, the role of media in shaping public consciousness, and the fine line between genuine human connection and calculated performance. Ultimately, this book's insights into the rise and fall of Lonesome Rhodes offer a compelling reflection on the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of the American dream, exposing the dark side of ambition and the fragility of fame in a society captivated by image and influence.

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About the Author

Budd Schulberg has also written The Harder They Fall, Moving Pictures, On the Waterfront (play and screenplay), Ringside, and Sparring with Hemingway, all published by Ivan R. Dee. He lives in Westhampton Beach, New York.

Review

Accomplished screenwriter journeys inside the lives of restless and troubled characters...[with] colorful personalities. (Paper Clips)

Schulberg is capable of...an O. Henry comeuppance....Puts [each] story in...milieu larger than...solipsism of its main characters. (Charles Taylor, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, McGill University Newsday)

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