TL;DR
Fellow Travelers is a historical novel set in 1950s Washington, D.C., exploring a secret romance between two men amidst political drama and anti-Communist fervor.
What is Fellow Travelers about
Fellow Travelers by Thomas Mallon is a historical novel set against the backdrop of 1950s Washington, D.C. The story follows Timothy Laughlin, a recent college graduate and devout Catholic, who is eager to join the crusade against Communism. He meets Hawkins Fuller, a charismatic State Department official, leading to Tim's first job and their subsequent covert love affair. As Senator McCarthy's anti-Communist crusade intensifies, the dangers for 'sexual subversives' increase, creating a perilous environment for the couple. Mallon elegantly intertwines political intrigue with personal turmoil, capturing the era's tense atmosphere.
Fellow Travelers 6 Key Takeaways
Timothy Laughlin's Ambition
Timothy, a devout Catholic and recent college graduate, is eager to join the anti-Communist efforts in Washington, D.C. He meets Hawkins Fuller, a State Department official, who introduces him to the political world.
First Love Affair
Timothy and Hawkins develop a secret romantic relationship amidst the political turmoil. Their love affair begins to flourish against the oppressive backdrop of McCarthy's witch hunts.
McCarthy's Crusade
Senator Joe McCarthy's anti-Communist campaign gains momentum, leading to heightened scrutiny and investigations into government officials, including 'sexual subversives.'
Navigating Double Lives
Timothy and Hawkins struggle to maintain their secret relationship while operating in a volatile political environment. Their double lives become increasingly dangerous as McCarthy's reach extends.
European Front Line
Their journey takes them to NATO's front line in Europe, where they must navigate not only the political landscape but also their personal relationship amidst international tensions.
Heartbreaking Conclusion
The relationship between Tim and Hawkins faces severe trials as political and personal pressures mount, leading to a poignant and heartrending conclusion.
Top Fellow Travelers Quotes
- 'In a world of bare-knuckled ideology and secret dossiers.'
- 'As McCarthy mounts a desperate bid for power, internal investigations focus on “sexual subversives” in the government.'
Who should read Fellow Travelers?
Fellow Travelers is ideal for readers interested in historical fiction, particularly those who enjoy stories set in the politically charged 1950s. It's also a poignant read for anyone interested in LGBTQ history and the personal impacts of political oppression.
Fellow Travelers Best Reviews
- 'Crisp, buoyant prose.' —The New York Times Book Review
- 'Mallon captures the era's tense atmosphere while providing a deeply personal narrative.' —The Washington Post
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Fellow Travelers FAQs
Was Fellow Travelers a book?
Yes, Fellow Travelers, now a Showtime series, is a beloved 2007 novel by Thomas Mallon.
What is the theme of the book Fellow Travelers?
The book explores the intertwined attacks on human freedom during the anti-Communist and anti-gay purges of the 1950s.
Is the show Fellow Travelers based on a true story?
While the Lavender Scare and other events are true, the main characters are not based on specific people but are drawn from Mallon's novel.