Book Review: Gather At The River by Hal Crowther - Page 2

Crowther writes on race with a thoughtful elegance, such as in the piece on Lott, Jesse Helms and other Southern shames, "the old race dragons … coiled in the hearts of Dixie so long they hold the mortgage, and it takes generations to buy them out." Another essay where a discussion of Crowther's literary idol H.L. Mencken's relevance in these times spins into a sprawling debate on the cynical culture created by television is a particular highlight, showcasing Crowther's deft arguments and pointed conclusions. Crowther is old-fashioned in his views, occasionally curmudgeonly, but almost never is he offensive; he's like the genial college professor you admired even if you didn't always agree with.

It's a sign of Crowther's skill that even topics unfamiliar to some, such as a profile of author Marshall Frady or a look at a college friend who became a leading museum art figure, breathe with life and telling details. While there's a definite regional slant to this collection, Crowther's measured, original voice should appeal to any lover of fine essays. If all you think of when you imagine Southern culture is Larry the Cable Guy and the Dukes of Hazzard, Crowther's reassuring voice offers a glimpse at an older, wiser face of the region that's starting to be forgotten.

Article Author: Nik Dirga

An American journalist who now lives in New Zealand, Nik Dirga writes whenever the mood strikes him about books, music, movies, pop culture and more.

Visit Nik Dirga's author page — Nik Dirga's Blog