Synopsis
"Smells Like Dead Elephants: Dispatches from a Rotting Empire" is a non-fiction book written by Matt Taibbi and published in 2007. The book is a collection of Taibbi's essays and articles originally published in Rolling Stone magazine, where he worked as a contributing editor.
The book is structured into four sections, each focusing on a different aspect of American society and politics. The first section, "The Rise of the Idiots," discusses the growing anti-intellectualism in American culture and the rise of conservative media outlets like Fox News. The second section, "The Decline of the Empire," examines the effects of American imperialism on foreign countries and the erosion of civil liberties in the United States after the 9/11 attacks.
The third section, "The End of Journalism," explores the decline of traditional news media and the rise of corporate-owned media conglomerates. Finally, the fourth section, "The People's Republic of Walmart," looks at the impact of big-box retailers on small towns and the economy as a whole.
Throughout the book, Taibbi uses his sharp wit and incisive reporting to offer a critical analysis of contemporary American society and politics. He takes aim at politicians, corporations, and media figures, exposing their flaws and biases while also offering a vision for a better, more just society.
Overall, "Smells Like Dead Elephants" is a thought-provoking and engaging collection of essays that offers a unique perspective on contemporary American culture and politics. While some readers may find Taibbi's writing style to be abrasive or confrontational, others will appreciate his unflinching criticism and insightful analysis.