It Never Got Weird Enough for Me
Reflections on Gonzo Journalism

I had the rare occasion to watch the Sundance Channel on cable television. I say "rare," as I don't really watch much TV. To be honest, these days, there's a lack of quality in overall programs and a distinct (and annoying) lack of professionalism among journalists. Maybe the word isn't "professionalism," maybe its "originality," who knows? I'm pretty sure the word "journalist" doesn't fit the majority of them, either.

Which brings me to WHY I was watching Sundance. They were showing a movie that I hadn't seen in ages: "Where the Buffalo Roam." It starred Bill Murray as "Gonzo Journalist" Dr. Hunter S. Thompson and Peter Boyle as his attorney.


It caused me to dig out my old and original tattered copy of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas," which also brought back a few, somewhat, clouded memories.

I started out as a broadcast journalist in that era, I was pretty much "mainstream," as I was learning the ropes and "cutting my teeth," so to speak, not necessarily gnawing on the skulls of politicians, as did the late doctor. I was deeply saddened by his passing, recently, by the way.

The movie reminded me, however, that looking back at those strange (but true) times - I was a closeted "Gonzo Journalist." As time elapsed, I recall occasionally gnawing on a few skulls.


Books by Dr. Hunter S. Thompson

These days, I've traded my old manual typerwriter and inked ribbons for a computer, as well as traded mainstream broadcasting for the internet...But in the good doctor's immortal words (and I'll change them, just a bit to suit my tone): "Its STILL never got weird enough for me."

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