Sam Tanenhaus is a distinguished editor and critic, known for his insightful commentary on literature and politics. His editorial leadership at The New York Times Book Review shapes contemporary literary discourse, offering readers carefully curated perspectives. Through his critical essays, he delves into the complexities of cultural and political landscapes, demonstrating a keen analytical eye. Tanenhaus’s rigorous approach to writing and editing makes him a significant voice in American letters.
The author charts the story of Whittaker Chambers, whose transformation from Communist agent to anti-Communist witness climaxed in 1948, when he testified against Alger Hiss, a senior U.S. State Department official, in the controversial trial that shook and changed America.
The book explores the historical evolution of the American conservative movement, highlighting a 75-year ideological divide between two main factions. One group, the consensus-driven "realists," advocates for the government's role in adapting to societal changes, while the other, the movement "revanchists," harbors a deep skepticism of government and societal structures, often positioning themselves in opposition to American values. Sam Tanenhaus's analysis offers a comprehensive examination of these conflicting perspectives and their impact on contemporary politics.