Fear and Loathing in an Explosion Somewhere in Colorado

Days after his death, book sales jumped, most notably Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, the 1971 drug-induced novel that was later adapted to film and made Thompson a household (sort of) name. It is Thompson’s most well known work, but it isn’t nearly as entertaining as the published volumes of his letters, which he wrote to Presidents, neighbors, friends, enemies, and deranged fans. He never wrote a true autobiography, but it is often said that the letters found in The Proud Highway, Fear and Loathing in America, and in the upcoming final volume The Mutineer will stand well in its place. For those that thought the stories or characters he based on himself were exaggerated in any way, they will be shocked to see, that if anything, his reality was more psychotic than any fiction he produced. These are absolute must-reads for any Thompson fan.

Being that what Phillyist does can be categorized as journalism, a medium defined by creativity and voice, we just wanted to pay our respects to a pioneer in the field. We were saddened by the news of his passing and we wanted to say goodbye. But don’t worry, we’re not upset enough to end things ourselves just yet. No, we’re just getting started. We may not keep kegs of gunpowder in the basement, use shotguns to destroy opponents’ golf balls, or live in a fortified compound, but then who does? Hopefully our steering clear of explosives and high powered firearms will lead to longevity.
The private ceremonial cannon blast is scheduled for August 20th and dates for a public commemoration will be announced later. As for Phillyist readers, if you plan on being in the Aspen area late next month, keep a look out for a strange explosion in the sky. You’ll know what it is.