Sometimes, we can learn lessons from the most unlikely sources. From the start of his career as the founder of gonzo journalism, author Hunter S. Thompson was already on his way to developing a career of fame as well as infamy, for good reason. His works offer a clever satire on Americana while taking readers on kaleidoscopic, clever, and twisted trips through drug abuse and highs. Despite the repulsive nature of his writing, Thompson still outlines problems that are just as relevant now as they were back in the 60s and 70s. Today, drugs are still a huge part of American culture (greatly due to the influence of a little green plant called marijuana), and thousands of people suffer from addiction every day. Still, what did Thompson do to change the game on drug education for the masses? Let’s take a closer look at inarguably his best-known work Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.
Literature on Acid
Considered a quintessential drug book of the decade by The New York Times Book Review, Hunter S. Thompson’s Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas: A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream is just like its name suggests: frightening and savage. Using the pseudonym Raoul Duke, Thompson travels with his lawyer Dr. Gonzo in the “Great Red Shark,” a convertible that is filled with every drug except Tylenol. Originally hired to cover a motorcycle race, the two men end up losing their minds in Las Vegas, Nevada and try enough mind-altering drugs to knock out an elephant. Mescaline, cocaine, grass, acid, and a few cases of alcohol are the tools of the trade in this infamous story.
Shock Humor and a Clever Message
A new generation of moviegoers got the shock of their lives when they saw the film adaptation of Fear and Loathing, starring Johnny Depp as Raoul Duke and Benicio Del Toro as Gonzo. In this case, the visual representation is a perfect extension of the book and (in many ways) provides an unintentional lesson about drugs through shock humor. Viewers could bear witness to the terrifying effects of acid (including a hilarious scene in a Las Vegas bar) and feel the pain of our characters on the day after. In reality, though, both the book and the film are relatable. At some point, everyone has had a friend who has become addicted to drugs or frequently abuses a harmful substance.
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction and substance abuse troubles today.
