Sun Mar 23 13:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Graydon Carter’s “When the Going Was Good” Recounts the Golden Age of Magazines

**New York, NY** – Graydon Carter, former editor of *Spy*, *The New York Observer*, and *Vanity Fair*, offers a captivating memoir, “When the Going Was Good,” co-written with James Fox, chronicling his career during the heyday of American magazines. The book details Carter’s rise from a Canadian literary magazine editor to a powerful figure in New York media, shaping the landscape of journalism, dining, and even Hollywood events.

Carter’s unique style, described as a blend of aloofness and sybaritism, is central to the narrative. The memoir paints a vivid picture of the lavish lifestyle and unparalleled access enjoyed by magazine staff during this era, featuring anecdotes about encounters with countless celebrities and influential figures. From lavish expense accounts and company-sponsored dinners to securing prime seats at exclusive events, Carter’s account reveals the extravagance of the golden age of magazines.

The book also touches on the creation of *Spy*, the satirical magazine Carter co-founded with Kurt Andersen, which famously lampooned prominent New Yorkers, including Donald Trump. His subsequent move to *Vanity Fair* saw him transform the magazine into a powerhouse, known for its high-profile investigations and glamorous portrayal of Hollywood and the elite. However, the memoir also reveals the challenges and controversies he faced, including accusations of suppressing information in a Jeffrey Epstein profile.

Despite the book’s focus on high society, Carter’s path is presented as one of unexpected success, marked by his ability to spot opportunities and cultivate talent. The memoir emphasizes the importance of nurturing creativity and providing resources for writers, illustrating how generous budgets and supportive environments fostered exceptional journalism.

“When the Going Was Good” ultimately serves as a nostalgic reflection on a bygone era of magazine publishing, highlighting both its excesses and its contributions to cultural discourse. It offers a unique perspective on style, glamour, and the art of magazine editing, leaving readers with a compelling portrait of a man who mastered the art of the good life while leaving his mark on American culture.

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