Tangier Diaries

In the 1960s and 1970s, Tangier was a fabled place, the Interzone, a muse and escapist dream for artists, writers, millionaires, and socialites. John Hopkins became a part of the bohemian Tangier crowd, including William Burroughs, Paul and Jane Bowles, Brion Gysin, Tennessee Williams, Jean Genet, Yves Saint Laurent, Barbara Hutton, and Malcolm Forbes. This is brought to life in John Hopkins' cult classic.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 10 June 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Tangier, a legendary city, emerged as a captivating muse and an escape for artists, writers, millionaires, and socialites during the vibrant 1960s and 1970s. This edgy Interzone became a haven for those seeking an intense and liberated existence, far from the constraints of their everyday lives. Among this eclectic and cosmopolitan crowd, John Hopkins, a young writer, found himself embraced by the bohemian Tangier community, which included iconic figures such as William Burroughs, Paul and Jane Bowles, Brion Gysin, Tennessee Williams, Jean Genet, Yves Saint Laurent, Barbara Hutton, and Malcolm Forbes. These intoxicating decades, known as Tangier's "Golden Years," have passed, leaving behind grand old houses that now stand in silence and darkness. Many of the eccentrics who once called the city home have passed away, leaving behind a legacy that remains etched in the pages of John Hopkins' cult classic.

In this captivating book, Hopkins vividly resurrects the decadence and flamboyance of those unforgettable days, transporting readers back to the vibrant streets of Tangier. Through his vivid descriptions and meticulous research, he brings to life the characters, the music, the art, and the atmosphere that defined this era. From the opulent mansions that once echoed with laughter and love to the hidden corners where secrets were whispered, every detail is brought to life with a richness and authenticity that is truly remarkable.

But beyond the nostalgia and the glamour, John Hopkins' book also offers a deeper reflection on the nature of exile and the complexities of human relationships. The characters in this story are all searching for something, whether it be love, freedom, or a sense of belonging. They navigate the treacherous waters of Tangier's underworld, where danger lurks around every corner, and where the line between reality and illusion is blurred.

Through their struggles and triumphs, Hopkins explores the themes of identity, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that often seems chaotic and uncertain. Tangier becomes a metaphor for the human condition, a place where the boundaries between different cultures, religions, and ideologies are blurred, and where individuals are free to express themselves in ways that may be considered taboo or forbidden elsewhere.

In conclusion, John Hopkins' book is a masterpiece that captures the essence of a bygone era. It brings to life the decadence and flamboyance of Tangier in the 1960s and 1970s, offering a glimpse into a world that was once considered exotic and mysterious. But beyond the surface, it delves into the deeper themes of exile, identity, and the human condition, leaving readers with a profound appreciation for the complexities of life and the power of storytelling. This is a book that will be cherished by generations to come, a testament to the enduring legacy of Tangier and the indomitable spirit of its people.

Weight: 214g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755645565