American Tabloid (Underworld USA, #1) Summary & Key Insights

James Ellroy's American Tabloid, the first installment of his Underworld USA trilogy, is a sprawling, hyper-violent, and darkly comedic crime novel set against the backdrop of post-war America. The narrative unfolds through the intertwined lives of three central characters: the ambitious and ruthless LAPD officer, Buckley; the cunning and opportunistic mobster, Pete Bondurant; and the morally ambiguous journalist and communist sympathizer, Tommy.

The story begins in the late 1950s and unfolds over several years, weaving together various strands of crime, espionage, and political intrigue. The assassination of President John F. Kennedy acts as a major plot point, though it is not the central focus. Instead, the novel explores the myriad connections and conspiracies leading up to and surrounding the event, depicting a world where the lines between law enforcement, organized crime, and the government are hopelessly blurred.

Buckley, initially motivated by a thirst for power and recognition, becomes entangled in a web of corruption, manipulating situations and engaging in brutal acts of violence to ascend the ranks of the LAPD. His ambition is insatiable, driving him towards increasingly dangerous alliances and morally questionable choices.

Pete Bondurant, a seemingly minor figure initially, proves to be a remarkably shrewd and adaptable criminal. He skillfully navigates the treacherous landscape of the Mafia, using his wits and connections to amass wealth and influence. His involvement with Buckley deepens as their paths intertwine through various criminal enterprises.

Tommy, initially presented as a somewhat naïve idealist, becomes a pawn in the larger game, his journalistic integrity gradually eroding as he becomes entangled in the dark machinations of the powerful. His experiences expose the pervasive corruption within the American system, leaving him cynical and disillusioned.

Throughout the novel, the characters' actions interweave, their decisions leading to unforeseen consequences. The investigation into the murder of a Hollywood starlet, the escalating conflicts between the Mafia and other criminal organizations, and the emerging Cold War tensions all serve as backdrop to the central narrative. Each character’s personal ambitions and flawed morality drive the plot forward, leading to a series of betrayals, murders, and shocking revelations.

Ellroy's American Tabloid is less a traditional detective story and more a sprawling historical tapestry woven with crime, violence, and paranoia. The overarching themes are those of corruption, ambition, and the moral decay of American society during a period of unprecedented change and social upheaval. The book uses a highly stylized prose, full of gritty realism and cynical humor, reflecting the darkness at the heart of its complex and morally ambiguous narrative.