Working summary

Exploring the Life of a Biographer

In Working, Robert A. Caro, the renowned biographer of Robert Moses and Lyndon B. Johnson, takes us on a journey through his life and career. He begins by recounting his early days as a journalist, where he learned the importance of thorough research and the power of words. Caro then delves into his first major project, a biography of Robert Moses, the influential New York City urban planner.

Caro's meticulous research process for The Power Broker involved spending years studying Moses's life and work. He even moved into the same neighborhood as Moses's former home to understand the impact of his policies. This dedication to understanding the subject's environment and the people affected by his decisions became a hallmark of Caro's work.

Uncovering the Life of Lyndon B. Johnson

In the second part of Working, Caro shifts his focus to his monumental biography of Lyndon B. Johnson. He describes his initial interest in Johnson, a man who wielded immense power but remained an enigma to many. Caro's research took him to Johnson's hometown in Texas, where he spent years interviewing people who knew the former president.

Caro's portrayal of Johnson in The Years of Lyndon Johnson series is complex and multi-dimensional. He highlights Johnson's political genius and his ability to manipulate people and situations to achieve his goals. At the same time, Caro doesn't shy away from depicting Johnson's darker side, including his ruthless pursuit of power and his role in escalating the Vietnam War.

The Art of Writing and the Power of Detail

Throughout Working, Caro emphasizes the importance of detail in his writing. He believes that the small, seemingly insignificant aspects of a person's life can reveal profound truths. For example, in his research on Johnson, Caro discovered that the former president's childhood poverty deeply influenced his later actions and policies.

Caro also discusses his writing process, which involves immersing himself in the world of his subjects. He often writes his first drafts longhand, a method he believes allows him to connect more deeply with his material. He also revisits locations from his subjects' lives, such as the Texas hill country where Johnson grew up, to better understand their experiences.

Reflections on Power and Its Consequences

As Working draws to a close, Caro reflects on the nature of power and its impact on society. He argues that understanding the lives of powerful individuals like Moses and Johnson is crucial to understanding the forces that shape our world. He also emphasizes the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, Working offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of the most respected biographers of our time. Caro's dedication to his craft, his commitment to thorough research, and his ability to bring his subjects to life on the page make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the art of biography and the nature of power.