This unique collection highlights 50 years of essays by William F. Buckley, Jr., revealing him to be a conservative writer par excellence.
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Mar 01, 2009
Brent
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"Miles Gone By" seems to be a near complete biography and one that allows the reader to see how the puzzle fits together. It would be easy to overlook the uniqueness of this life by labeling the author as mostly reflecting a political point of view. He has shown in many of his other books his diversity of interests and his ability to inform his readers about activities and the events taking place in the world at the same time. I remember in his book "Racing Through Paradise how mu
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Aug 18, 2008
John
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The style here struck me as an informal conversation with a friend on the front porch rather than the formal discourse required of a book. The writing was light, if that is possible for Buckley but certainly Buckley, and yet he left the polemics for a different time and place. The chapters were all at once heartfelt, humble and enthusiastic; evident throughout too was his innate goodness, humor and basic good nature.
The book is a collection of 50 essays from early childhood, his fi More...
The book is a collection of 50 essays from early childhood, his fi More...
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Feb 24, 2011
Jim
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This is another one where I had the privilege of reading the book and then interviewing the writer, Buckley, on the phone for a profile I was writing of him at the time. No matter what your politics, it's hard to resist enjoying the workings of a brilliant mind. And that's what you get in "Miles Gone By." Buckley is alternately very personal, brilliant, humorous and scathing in indictments of what he considers lazy thinking and outmoded ideas. I thoroughly enjoyed talking with him and
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Aug 18, 2008
Suzanne
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Mr. Buckley calls this a "literary" autobiography and I expect he is accurate in his definition. However, this is just a series of reprinted articles and in some cases, chapters of previously published works. I read it in paperback with no CD. I love his wit and his sailing writing and had hoped for something new. It is kind of a "best of" for those who don't want to read Airborne or Atlantic High or other works which may be out of print.
Jun 09, 2008
Galen
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Not so much an autobiography as a collection of previous columns that illustrate the aspects of his life at the time he wrote them. A lot about sailing, not as much about politics.
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May 28, 2011
Scott
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A wonderful "literary" autobiography. Rather than pen a traditional memoir, Buckley produces existing essays about his life. In a sense he had already written an autobiography, all that was needed was to arrange these pieces into some logical order.
I especially enjoyed his description of the development of the Blackford Oaks charcter in his popular spy novel series. He was unashamedly pro-American and Oakes' Communist foes depicted correctly as evil. Most other spy novels in More...
I especially enjoyed his description of the development of the Blackford Oaks charcter in his popular spy novel series. He was unashamedly pro-American and Oakes' Communist foes depicted correctly as evil. Most other spy novels in More...
Oct 20, 2010
Rebecca
rated it:
I can honestly say that William F. Buckley was not my favourite person; I just could not cope with his conservative views. But he wrote amazing prose, and thankfully, he mellowed over time. (besides, I can't help but admire a man who can play a harpsicord very very well...) Terrific reading.
For the longer review, please go here:
http://www.epinions.com/content_17356826...
For the longer review, please go here:
http://www.epinions.com/content_17356826...
Jul 16, 2011
Alexandra
rated it:
I picked this up at random because I liked the title and have vague, favorable feelings for Buckley as a person. I honestly expected it to be very boring, but I can't put it down. It is really funny and engaging and wonderfully written. My husband says it is ok that I am sort of falling for Buckley now because he is a) brilliant and b) dead.
Sep 22, 2008
John
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A compilation of Buckley's autobiographical writings that span the decades. Some are hilarious. He has a talent for self deprecation. Don't miss "Why Don't We Complain?" After a ride on a hot commuter train during which no one beseeched the conductor to turn down the thermostat, Buckley resolves to speak up the next time such a situation presents iteself. He does so while standing in line at a Vermont ski shop only to get an embarrassing comeuppance of the most dramatic sort.
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Feb 20, 2011
John
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Great personal insight of the life and contributions of one of the greatest minds of the twentieth century!
May 22, 2011
Matthew
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If you've not read an Buckley, you're missing out. Just bring a dictionary.
Feb 12, 2011
Susie
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Love his politics or hate them, Buckley's writing is always superb and captivating. The essays included in this book really tell the story of a facinating life. I especially enjoyed the pices on sailing, friends, his trip on the Orient Express, and definitive vacations.
Apr 23, 2009
Rhingst
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Lots of interesting personal anecdotes of this unique American family. Too many stories of his friends, most of whom I've never heard. Whether you like his politics or not, WFB's confidence and joie de vie make for an interesting life story.
Nov 11, 2008
Rudy
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Buckley at his more spiritually enlightened, ruminating on his Catholic faith and giving anecdotes on his family life.
Jun 26, 2008
Brian
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Great! Loved the stuff about sailing. And I don't know anything about sailing, but this guy can write!
Mar 01, 2008
Bill
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Great ideas are non-negotiable. WFB understood this and his life reflects it.
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