Podcast Summary: The Ezra Klein Show Episode: Book Review: Robert Caro on 50 Years of ‘The Power Broker’
Release Date: October 15, 2024
Host: Gilbert Cruz, Editor of the New York Times Book Review
Guest: Robert Caro, acclaimed author of The Power Broker and the multi-volume The Years of Lyndon Johnson

Introduction

In the 50th-anniversary episode of The Power Broker, Robert Caro joins host Gilbert Cruz to reflect on his seminal work and its enduring impact on the understanding of power and urban development in New York City. Caro, renowned for his exhaustive research and compelling narrative style, delves into the legacy of Robert Moses, the man whose unchecked power shaped much of modern New York.

The Enduring Legacy of The Power Broker

Gilbert Cruz opens the discussion by highlighting the timeless relevance of The Power Broker. Published in September 1974, the book remains a cornerstone in nonfiction, history, and biography literature. Cruz remarks on the book's monumental length and depth, questioning why it has sustained its influence half a century later.

Robert Caro responds at [03:33], attributing the book’s longevity to readers' fascination with power dynamics. He states, “People are interested in power… Robert Moses power was unchecked power… a man who wasn’t elected to anything, and he held on to power for 44 years” (04:39). This exploration of unaccountable power resonates in democratic societies where power is typically assumed to emanate from electoral processes.

Exploring the Nature of Power

The conversation shifts to Caro’s broader examination of power, not just through Moses but also through his extensive work on Lyndon Johnson. Cruz references a Paris Review interview where Caro articulates, “Power doesn't always corrupt… What power always does is reveal” (05:50). Caro elaborates that power can unveil intrinsic qualities of individuals, using Lyndon Johnson's transformation as a case study. He recounts how Johnson, despite previously opposing civil rights measures, utilized his presidency to champion them decisively (06:23).

This discussion highlights Caro’s nuanced understanding of power—not as an inherently corrupting force, but as a mechanism that exposes true character and intentions.

Robert Caro's Meticulous Writing Process

A significant portion of the interview delves into Caro’s painstaking writing methodology. At 17:16, Caro describes his process: outlining the entire book before writing, drafting each chapter in detail, and composing the manuscript by hand. He emphasizes the importance of a slow, deliberate approach, which allows for deep exploration and thoroughness.

Caro remarks, “If you don’t slow yourself down, this book isn’t going to be any good” (19:55). This meticulousness ensures that every aspect of the subject’s life and influence is comprehensively documented and analyzed.

Collaboration with Ina Caro

Caro pays homage to his wife, Ina Caro, highlighting her pivotal role in his research endeavors. She not only assisted in typing but also excelled in conducting interviews, particularly with isolated individuals connected to Lyndon Johnson. At 33:32, Caro shares an anecdote about Ina’s innovative approach to building rapport with interviewees by offering fig preserves, which facilitated deeper and more meaningful conversations.

Their collaborative synergy is evident as Ina uncovers critical documents and insights that significantly enhance the depth and accuracy of Caro's work.

Challenges of Historical Research in the Digital Age

The interview touches upon the transformation of archival research in the digital era. Caro expresses concern over the shift from physical documents to digital records, where “someone has to decide what’s digitized” (39:22). He warns that this poses challenges for future historians, who may face limitations based on the selective preservation and accessibility of digital archives.

Caro underscores the indispensability of exhaustive manual research, emphasizing that “turn every page” remains a critical mantra for uncovering hidden truths within vast collections of documents (41:37).

Robert Caro’s Influence on Government and Readers

Cruz inquires about the book’s impact on government officials, to which Caro affirms that many congresspeople and senators have read The Power Broker early in their careers. They often commend the book for elucidating the sources and mechanisms of power, fostering a deeper understanding among policymakers about the complexities of governance and authority.

Conclusion

As the conversation draws to a close, Caro reflects on his literary inspirations, mentioning his admiration for authors like John le Carré and Anthony Trollope. He credits his wife Ina for introducing him to these influences, which have enriched his narrative style.

Gilbert Cruz concludes by celebrating The Power Broker as a monumental work that transcends genres, remaining a vital reference in nonfiction, history, and literature fifty years post-publication. Caro’s dedication to uncovering and articulating the intricacies of power continues to inspire readers and writers alike.

Notable Quotes

• Robert Caro on unaccountable power:
  “...a man who wasn’t elected to anything, and he held on to power for 44 years” (04:39).

• Robert Caro on power revealing character:
  “Power doesn't always corrupt… What power always does is reveal” (05:50).

• Robert Caro on meticulous writing:
  “If you don’t slow yourself down, this book isn’t going to be any good” (19:55).

• Robert Caro on digital archives:
  “Someone has to decide what’s digitized... it’s going to change history a lot” (39:22).

• Robert Caro on uncovering hidden truths:
  “Turn every page” (41:37).

This episode offers a profound exploration of Robert Caro's The Power Broker, shedding light on the intricate dance of power and the unwavering dedication required to document its complexities. Through Caro’s reflections, listeners gain invaluable insights into both the subject matter of his books and the disciplined craftsmanship behind his acclaimed writing.