Who / What
The Bonfire of the Vanities is a 1987 novel written by Tom Wolfe. The story is a drama exploring themes of ambition, racism, social class, politics, and greed set in 1980s New York City. It centers on three main characters: WASP bond trader Sherman McCoy, Jewish assistant district attorney Larry Kramer, and British expatriate journalist Peter Fallow.
Background & History
The novel was originally conceived as a serial in the style of Charles Dickens' writings. It ran in 27 installments in *Rolling Stone* starting in 1984. The story itself is set in 1980s New York City and deals with the complexities of ambition, racism, social class, politics, and greed during that era.
Why Notable
The novel is notable for its vivid portrayal of 1980s New York City and the intense conflicts arising from ambition, racism, and social stratification. It serves as a commentary on the moral landscape of the time through the lens of its central characters' experiences. The novel was originally developed in a serial format, indicating an early interest in adapting complex social narratives.
In the News
As a 1987 novel by Tom Wolfe, it remains a significant text for understanding the cultural and social dynamics of the 1980s. Its adaptation into a serial highlights an early engagement with serialized storytelling and social commentary. The themes explored within the narrative continue to resonate with discussions on ambition and inequality.
