Gore Vidal: A Literary Giant with a Substantial Fortune
Gore Vidal, a renowned American author, left behind a vast literary legacy and a substantial fortune of $30 million. His wealth emerged predominantly from his prolific writing career, spanning novels, plays, essays, and screenplays. With his keen wit and incisive intellect, Vidal explored history, politics, and human nature, creating works that captivated readers globally.
Gore Vidal’s Feud with Truman Capote
In 1975, the literary world witnessed a dramatic showdown when Gore Vidal filed a $1 million lawsuit against Truman Capote. Vidal accused Capote of spreading malicious rumors about his behavior at a party hosted by President John F. Kennedy. The lawsuit fueled a heated rivalry between the two authors, with Vidal criticizing Capote’s focus on celebrity over substance, while Capote dismissed Vidal’s work as dull and pretentious. Tragically, Capote’s sudden death in 1984 left the lawsuit unresolved.
Gore Vidal’s Final Resting Place
Gore Vidal’s final resting place is Rock Creek Cemetery in Washington, D.C., amidst fellow literary giants like Woodrow Wilson and Helen Keller. Why Rock Creek? Perhaps he was drawn to its historic significance or found solace near his beloved partner, Howard Austen, and military comrade, Jimmie Trimble. Today, literary enthusiasts visit Vidal’s gravesite to pay homage to his legacy and absorb the inspiration that lingers within its serene surroundings.
Gore Vidal’s Partner: Howard Austen
Howard Austen was not only Gore Vidal’s partner but also his confidant, muse, and intellectual equal. Their five-decade relationship played a pivotal role in shaping Vidal’s creativity. Austen’s openness and understanding navigated the complexities of their relationship, influencing Vidal’s characters and ideas. Austen’s perspectives and companionship intertwined with Vidal’s writing, enriching his work with depth and layers. Their partnership serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and companionship in an artist’s life.
