Vinson Cunningham’s debut draws parallels with Joe Klein’s portrayal of Bill Clinton in Primary Colours of 1996 – a text that continues to evoke nostalgia among individuals who can recall its tumultuous release. Cunningham, in his book, profiles Barack Obama similarly to how Klein detailed Clinton. Though Primary Colours boasted a sharp wit and frequent revelations, Great Expectations often overlooks the reader’s irresistible desire for juicy details.
Obama, in this narrative, is presented as “the Senator”, while Cunningham, a former 2008 campaign worker, is depicted as “David”, a fundraiser navigating through the world of influential contributions, working towards installing the first African American president in the United States.
To our disappointment, merely one-third of the tale pertains to the election. When Obama does sporadically appear, we witness a character who is detached, ill-tempered, nonchalant, brusque, and excessively self-important, seemingly disgruntled at the prospect of having to campaign at all. This stark contrast to his public image breathes intrigue suffusing into the depiction of a figure of such historical importance.
Indeed, had Cunningham given this aspect more attention, the novel might have improved considerably. Instead, the author dabbles excessively into David’s personal history, transforming portions of the book into monotonous reads. Most readers aren’t looking for the supporting acts; they wish to see the main attraction.
The author also demonstrates a questionable portrayal of female characters, frequently describing them in extensive detail, highlighting their outer appearances and fashion choices. Bizarrely, most are shown as being attracted to him, whereas male characters are described based on wealth and influential connections. The mother of his child is dismissed merely as “the dancer”, without even having her name mentioned.
Despite these criticisms, enthusiasts of American political history will find a wealth of fascinating moments. From a disconcerting episode following an early defeat leading to David’s apprehensive fear of the candidate, to a spine-chilling comment about Hillary before the Nevada primary – there are thrills and insights embedded. Indeed, the highlight would be when David encounters Peter Yarrow of the trio ‘Peter, Paul and Mary’. Yarrow’s astonishment at finally coming across a person of colour reflects a surprising reality about the campaign’s staff demographics.
It’s a profound revelation, suggesting a sliver of reality. The book might have benefitted from several more of such shocking insights.