Fear and Loathing in Los Vegas
Author - Hunter S. Thompson
Published - 1971
Genre: Adventure Journalism
Theme: The Psychedelic American Dream
Synopsis: This story centers around two characters, Raoul Duke and Dr. Gonzo. Accompanied by Dr. Gonzo, Duke is visiting Los Vegas to report on a motorcycle race. However, on their trip to the city they decide to partake in a variety of psychedelic (and other) drugs. Due to these effects their experiences begin to transform, reality and the surreal begin to blur into one. These influences cause all sorts of paranoid fuelled spectacles, hallucinations, and pandemonium. While Dr. Gonzo and Duke travel through the wild and unpredictable city of Los Vegas they explore the possibility of finding The American Dream in a new way, as they ride the wave of their own experiences engaging in and exploring their own prevailing moment.
Philosophical Associations:
Aldous Huxley - The Doors of Perception
Relevance: Huxley, author of Brave New World and other works, published this semi-autobiographical tale about his experience of the psychedelic drug mescaline. Watchfully accompanied by a psychologist and his wife while under the influence of the drug, Huxley narrates his experience in a very lucid and clear manner. Used in some native american religious ceremonies, Huxley explains mescaline's spiritual euphoria and visually stimulating gratification. Contrary to Thompson's account, which veers on the poetic at times, Huxley attempts to provide a rational and analytic rendition of his experiences.
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