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Hey guys--remember you don't need to comment on this final post, as we will be discussing the book tomorrow.

David Dixon, Final Post

Although Klein may have intended to have his book parallel the Clinton Administration at the outset, Klein was writing a work of fiction and it should not be interpreted otherwise. While many of the characters resemble actual people, the inconsistencies between them, whether negative or positive, should not be of grievance. Clearly, as Klein says, he forgot the real-life inspiration, and so, did not intend to offend.
However, if someone were to be offended, Jesse Jackson, portrayed as the Rev. Luther Charles, has the most reason to be angry with Klein. Jackson is portrayed as an insane man who tries to lead Burton astray. The Rev. Luther Charles is always stirring up trouble for Burton and has to be persuaded not to mess up the whole campaign. While he shows his other side, talking with Henry in New York, he still manages to plant seeds of second thought in Burton’s mind.
Jackson may have some radical views, but nevertheless, he did not deserve to be portrayed as such. His interactions with Burton are what make him relevant to the story, but the real-life basis for Burton is George Stephanopoulos, making the Burton-Charles interactions unlikely. Jackson, while portrayed rather harshly, still should not feel insulted, as it is clear that Klein was not taking a direct shot at Jackson.

Joy Glaze, Last Comments

I thought Kaila made a very good point about the negative portrayal of Daisy. Before reading Kaila’s post, I had always thought of Daisy as a good character, because Henry Burton always described her as having such a nice personality. I never seriously considered her campaign contributions. Now that I do, I realize that she does appear to be a “waste of space”. It is interesting how the narrator’s point of view is so easy for readers to adopt as their own.
On the other hand, I disagreed with some points in Janine’s post. She seemed to think that it was not fair for Bill Clinton’s personal life to be made known to the public. I think that the way candidates handle their own lives is very important to take into consideration when deciding whether to support them. If candidates are irresponsible with personal issues, then, most likely, they will be irresponsible with national affairs as well. When someone runs for president, they should know that their private lives are going to be scrutinized by the public.

Cari Heinz Final Post

Gennifer Flowers, or Cashmere McLeod in the book, would be most upset with how her situation was portrayer. The results from the book are extremely different from how they ended in real life. In the book Cashmere McLeod is a scandalous hairdresser who puts together fake tapes to accuse Stanton of sexual relations. Klein is correct in the events that Stanton denied relations on a 60 minutes episode and then Cashmere fired back in a press conference in which she played the “tapes”. In the book the scandal plays out only to fade and be dropped out of the campaign when in fact Gennifer Flowers put up a huge fight. Stanton never admits to the affaire in the book, when in fact Clinton eventually admits to an affaire. Gennifer would be most disappointed because her fight to prove she was right went on for quite some time. It went so far as to court. Gennifer also is no hairdresser. She worked as a “model” for the Penthouse magazine.

While the characters are based on real people the book itself is mostly fiction with little bits of reality thrown in. None of the characters in real life should expect to have a full biography about them. Something does have to be altered to make for a good book.

Nick Murphy---------Post ThReE

The most upset of all characters portrayed in Primary colors should be Bill Clinton, the “main event” of the whole book so to speak. Sure he was not the best decision maker, and yes he did some wrongs in order to get where he wanted to be. However, America still decided to choose him. For Joe Klein to reveal his entire campaign to the public like he did is inexcusable. Bill Clinton certainly did NOT take the right course of action every time, but he had to have been some kind of genius in order to accomplish what he did.
Bill Clinton was made out to be (through Jack Stanton of course) this cocky sweet-talker who would only say what the people wanted to hear. Obviously, I’m going to tell you that this, also, is erroneous. Having watched a late night special a few days before the debate (Obama vs. McCain) former President Clinton was questioned about how he used to feel before his debates, to which Clinton replied that he was nervous, going over material over and over to make sure he had his facts straight. This, ladies and gentlemen of Ms. Parron’s 5th period, does not display cockiness; it displays preparation for an important upcoming task.
Jack Stanton did not represent the true Bill Clinton like he should have, and for this reason, ex-president Bill Clinton should be the most angered character of Primary Colors.

Janine Marill Post 3

The character Jack Stanton represents former President Bill Clinton. The portrayal of Bill Clinton in “Primary Colors” is highly unflattering. Clinton is portrayed as being selfish, pandering, and weak. His extramarital discretions are a strong undercurrent in this novel. The story is Clinton is at odds with his wife and staff members at various points; his campaign rides on stress and conflict.
People who were close to Clinton in his past make criticize him throughout the book. During a fictional debate, Stanton’s opponent Charlie Martin (who represents Bob Kerrey) calls Stanton “damaged goods,” and questions whether Stanton’s questionable past and bad press will ruin his chance to be elected president. This statement really calls the country’s values about a Presidential candidate into question. If someone has a complicated, messy personal life, should this count against them in an election? Are personal problems a sign that someone is unable to lead a country? Most importantly, should voters be informed about politicians’ personal lives?
The book showed that Stanton was, essentially, damaged goods. His personal problems were overwhelmingly public. Some people only knew Stanton for the negative publicity he caused, and not for his views on how to improve the country. Ultimately, this sent the wrong message about Clinton. “Primary Colors” says that Clinton is only as big as his negative media.

Naomi Robert - Post Number Three

In the novel Primary Colors, character Henry Burton is based on the real life campaign manager George Stephanopolous. Of all the characters, I think that Stephanopolous has the greatest reason to be angry with Joe Klein because the story is told from Burton’s point of view. As the narrator, Burton presents many controversial opinions about people and events that occur in the campaign. The thoughts and personal experiences of Burton are described in great detail, but without the accuracy or permission of Stephanopolous.

In the book, Henry Burton has quite a few “relations” with other characters. In one instance in chapter 8, Henry sleeps with a girl he met in a bar he refers to as Claudia-Gloria and just leaves her in the morning, without even saying goodbye, making Burton seem promiscuous and disrespectful towards women. The author also offers up the possibility of affairs with Hillary Clinton (Susan Stanton) and Dee dee Myers (Daisy Green), who were both very respectful, happily married women. This kind of accusation, especially the affair with Susan Stanton discovered in chapter 5, is described in the book with an acceptable and understanding tone, when it would definitely bring about a negative impact in the real life of Stephanoplous.

In addition, Joe Klein chose to make Burton’s character African American and to make this race very important in many cases throughout the book. In a discussion with Rev. Luther Charles in chapter 6, it is suggested that Henry received most of his political fame because his father was a civil rights movement leader, and that Clinton takes Burton on so the campaign staff can be more diverse. Stephanopolous, on the other hand, was very proud of his Greek heritage, and may have been offended that he wasn’t even portrayed accurately in this aspect.

Will Middour Post 3

Betsey Wright and Vince Foster were being portrayed as Libby Holden in the book Primary Colors. Holden's job was to make sure that nothing bad was let out about Stanton. If something bad was let out, she was to immediately turn it around and make it bad about the other candidate. Joe Klein made it clear that Holden was not everyones favorite person in the campaign. He made it seem like she was a little bit crazy and everyone made jokes about her being weird.
If I were Betsy Wright I would be insulted to be portrayed as Libby. Betsey Wright was responsible for answering any attacks on the candidate which was accurately portrayed in Libby, but she was not crazy. Vince Foster was misrepresented, he had clinical depression which was why he committed suicide and in the book Holden's death was more sudden. Libby Holden was not happy with the fact that her whole life surrounded around politics but in real life I don't think Foster felt that way. Overall both people were portrayed correctly in some ways but incorrectly in others.

Raymond Johnson Post 3

Of all the characters Joe Klein puts into a negative light in Primary Colors, the most offended person should be James Carville. Carville is portrayed in the story as Richard Jemmons, who is Stanton’s political assistant in his campaign. From the moment he is introduced to Henry Burton, Carville is portrayed as a raving southern political lunatic. He frequently makes insensitive comments and uses foul language in every conversation he has.
As early as chapter one, Carville is portrayed as sex crazed and prone to falling for any woman he thinks resembles musician Winona Ryder. The character even goes as far as publicly exposing himself to a female member of the media whom he finds attractive. Burton sees Jemmons as irresponsible for doing this and tells him that he didn’t approve of his sexual manner towards the media. Jemmons responded that he was completely under control and wouldn’t have done it if the media woman wasn’t “cool”. Jemmons also makes racist remarks about minorities while talking to Henry Burton when he claims that he is blacker than Burton and that he “has some slave in him”. These ridiculous comments and actions make Burton very annoyed with the fact that he has to work in close proximity to Jemmons. This completely dishonorable portrayal of a still well known political personality is most likely very offensive to Mr. Carville. Klein held back nothing in his attack on James Carville and this gives Carville the most right to be offended of all characters in Primary Colors.

Kaila Brown, Post 3

Campaign adviser Dee Dee Myers should be very angry with Joe Klein because of the way she was depicted in Primary Colors. The character Daisy Green was based off of Ms. Myers. Dee Dee Myers was vital part to the Clinton campaign. She took on the role as press secretary during Clinton’s campaign and then served as the White House Press Secretary for two years. In the book I think that Myers character, Daisy Green, is portrayed as a “waste of space”. It seemed that Daisy didn’t do much for the campaign. She may had given a few good ideas here and there but for the most part it seemed like she was of no use. In chapter seven, David Alder replaced Daisy Green. Even though she was not technically fired this is how Daisy perceived it. She wasn’t being productive and Jack Stanton felt like someone could do better. On the contrary, Dee Dee Myers was very helpful to the Clinton campaign.  

In the book, Daisy Green and Henry Burton fall in love. Dee Dee Myers has every reason to be upset with this. In real life Myers is married and has two kids. She never had this affair with Stephanopoulos (whose character is Burton). Myers wasn’t very happy with Stephanopoulos. They had had several verbal mishaps about who should speak at the daily press briefings. Overall, the character Daisy Green barely has anything in common with Myers. Dee Dee Myers has every right to be angry with Klein and the way that he portrays her in Primary Colors!

Matthew Guzdial, Post Three

Despite Henry Burton’s amazing perceptiveness within Primary Colors, Joe Klein, the author, does not share this trait. Repeatedly throughout Primary Colors Mr. Klein introduces fictional characters that are more a caricature then a clean copy of their non-fictional selves. One of the greatest instances of this is in the character of Rev. Luther Charles, a civil rights activist and a clear mock-up of the Rev. Jesse Jackson. The reverend is represented within the novel as a weak, foolish man who is past his political prime, but who retains his bravado and immense pride.

 

The best example of this is within the narrator’s dinner with the character in chapter seven. Joe Klein portrays the reverend as graying and deflated, Burton remarking on this when he first sees the man. The character quickly goes on to lose control of the conversation, and the evening, making him seem impotent and weak-willed. And though Luther manages to end the evening connecting to Burton in a way neither men were expecting, all his opinions and judgements toward the narrator are proven completely incorrect by the end of the novel.

 

All in all this seems an entirely inappropriate reflection of Rev. Jackson. Though the man’s style of speaking and overall personality seem mostly intact, his ideals and motivations seem completely askew. Though Jackson never regained the political prominence he held during the Civil Rights era, to throughout his life he has remained an important force in politics, serving as both a representative of the United States and United Nations. As such Joe Klein’s representation of a fading, fallen leader seems more vindictive then perceptive. 

Peter Flamming, Post 3

Libby Holden is a deranged, suicidal manic. Nobody in their right mind would ever want to be portrayed as her, like Betsy Wright and Vince Foster were. Vince Foster had clinical depression which makes his being portrayed as an insane, lesbian woman slightly more acceptable. But Betsy Wright, who was perfectly normal, shares the role as Libby. Libby Holden did some terrible things, such as shoving a gun down the phone tapper’s pants and, ultimately, killing herself. Vince Foster also did kill himself but was never deemed a manic by anyone, and therefore would be highly upset at this slander to his name, were he alive. Libby Holden is the way many will remember him, and I highly doubt that Foster would condone this.
Betsy Wright, on the other hand, was a stalwart supporter of Jack Stanton who was reasonable and normal to every degree. Besty Wright's depiction as Libby Holden is not just wrong, it’s downright outrageous. I have no doubt that Wright would be furious and Vince would be rolling in his grave at Klein's description of both of them in one psychopathic character.

As for the other characters, I believe that the book is not so much blatantly attacking them, but more just poking fun at the people, much like standup comedy. And as with most standup comedy, feelings are going to be hurt here and maybe there'll be a bad joke that goes to far but in the end everybody has a laugh. Libby Holden, however, being not even a crucial character in the story, seems to deliberately attack Foster and Wright. That type of joke isn't even funny. It's just bad taste and horrible humor.

Philip Creviston- POST 3

In Primary Colors I see one character that should be very mad at Joe Klein. This is James Carville who is portrayed as Richard Jemmons. Klein portrays Carville as an arrogant jerk, whereas in real life Carville was a great politician and won an award for being the best political consultant during the Clinton campaign. I mean he may be flamboyant at times but not like as much as Klein makes him out to be. Chapter 6 is a perfect example of Klein making him too flamboyant.

Burton and Daisy where in a restaurant in the D.C. area when they meet Richard there. He was hitting on every girl there and he was cussing every other word. He yelled at the waitress for some service and was just plain rude. Carville has more self-control than that. He is not stupid enough to do all the stuff in this book. Also when he wipes out his man hood at the beginning of the book is another example of Klein going too far. He would never risk a law suit or anything like that. James Carville should be very upset.

Sarah Holt, Post 3

The “fictional” characters in Primary Colors should all be upset of how they were portrayed. No matter how alike or different the characters were to the correct personnel, all “facts” portrayed were not necessarily true. The plot of the book had to be enhanced by Joe Klein; therefore all of the details in the novel could not have been true. Klein must have changed what some of the characters would have said; he put words into their mouths.

Betsey Wright (possibly characterized as Libby Holden) should be upset of how she was represented. While I read the “Afterword” by Klein, he stated that he “completely forgot there was a real-life inspiration”. This means that while Klein was writing, he was not thinking about how Wright was Holden in the novel. She was his favorite character to write and he got carried away in some instances. Klein described Holden as insane. In the last chapter, Holden was found dead. Considering the fact that Holden is still alive I concluded that she did not, in fact, commit suicide.

Joy Glaze, Post 3

Former California Governor Jerry Brown should be very angry with Joe Klein because of the way Brown was represented in Primary Colors. Jerry Brown was the main inspiration for the character Freddy Picker. Although Picker seems like a “sterile” candidate from the outside, he is revealed to have a very dirty past. If Brown is anything like Picker, then he probably seemed to be a very good man until the publication of Primary Colors. Freddy Picker not only got mixed up in cocaine usage and a homosexual affair; he is also revealed to be much more insecure than he appears before the cameras. In the last chapter, Picker breaks down and cries like a baby when he considers having to face his past. Picker’s weaknesses are revealed in a way that is embarrassing and uncomfortable.
Jerry Brown may not have had any of Picker’s troubled past or secret insecurities. Unfortunately, because of his more apparent similarities to the character, readers of Primary Colors may have assumed that Brown also shared Picker’s faults. This undoubtedly placed Brown in an awkward position of having to defend himself from accusations based on the character of a fictional individual who was only loosely based on the former California Governor. Jerry Brown should be very upset with Joe Klein for representing his character in such a degrading way.

FINAL POSTING: Who's who??

In a prefatory statement, Klein (Anonymous) states that although a few of the journalists who make cameo appearances are real, all of the other characters are fictional. Since the book was published, many analyses have aligned the books’ characters—including Burton— with the real participants in the Clinton campaign.

Who should be the most angry at Klein for the way (s)he is portrayed in the book?? Obviously we know who the Stantons are, so if you discuss one of them, you need to really work hard to go beyond the obvious. Try to branch out a bit. You may have to Google to find out who the other players are alleged to be. Remember to cite from the final chapters.

I do expect this final entry to demonstrate that you have learned a bit about the fine art of literary analysis. It will count as two quiz grades.

Nick Murphy's very own 3rd and 4th comments

I don’t agree with Philip when he says Henry Burton is depressed during this time. He sees that there is still hope for the campaign and chooses to stick around for the grand finale. He just shows that he is pondering some of the decisions Stanton is making during his campaign, and even though he questions some of the situations Stanton ends up in, he remains optimistic deep inside. He wants to win the election more than anything. Becoming depressed would not help him to achieve this goal.

I can agree with Kaila when she says that Burton stays put because she feels bad for Jack. There are several times when Stanton is alone with Henry and opens up to him, telling him how things aren’t going well and that they are beginning to loose. It’s quite possible that Burton feels bad for him when he’s in this state, preventing himself from abandoning Stanton in his time of need. It’s quite an experience when you witness your hero in need of saving; maybe Burton realizes that sometimes even the savior needs saving.

Raymond Johnson Comments 3 and 4

I agree with Joy when she says that Burton is no longer unbiased. This is evident because of his increasingly closer relationships with Jack and Daisy and the way they have affected his judgement. She also makes the point that the campaign has become that the Stanton campaign has become Burton’s life and I very strongly agree with that. This is proven in the way that everything Burton now thinks about and does is somehow related to the campaign.
Another post that I agreed with was Matthew’s. He stated that Burton’s true motive for staying with the campaign was his deep love for the game of politics. His love for “the game” is evident in the way that he enjoys every aspect of the campaign even though Stanton is not predicted to win. This love is all that is keeping Burton involved in his support of Stanton.

Kaila Brown comment 3 and 4

I agree with Michael. It seems like Burton is pretending that everything is ok. He seems to acknowledge the scandals, but pushes them away and doesn’t let them completely override what he thinks of Stanton. Nothing at all will make Burton walk away from Stanton. it seems like Burton acknowleges that all politicians screw up. their screw ups just aren't widely publicized!

I would have to disagree with Janine’s comment on Cari’s post. Burton would not back down, even if he thought Stanton had no chance at all. Burton even says this to his parents in chapter 5. He though he didn’t believe that the campaign would make it past that weeks primaries, Burton said that he wouldn’t leave until it was over!

Matthew Guzdial, Comments 3 and 4

Naomi makes a very interesting point in bringing up Burton’s dysfunctional family. With the scene in Los Angeles, it becomes clear that not everything is completely normal between Burton and his parents. His mother, with her almost complete reversal of Burton’s perceptive nature in her calm indifference, and his father in his lack of any sort of contact beyond a few scant letters, have left a huge emotional hole in Burton’s life. Into this hole have plunged the Stantons, connecting with Burton in a way that his own parents never did. And, in unconscious gratitude, Henry connects back, ensnaring him even further into the campaign.

I really like all the points made by David. I completely agree with his discussion of Burton’s loyalty and faith towards Jack Stanton. However, I think that his choice of example was not quite as well chosen as it might have been. I believe that it is in the beginning of Chapter five, in the town meeting of Portsmouth, that Stanton truly proves himself to Burton. After that night, Burton lavishly praises Stanton at every opportunity, repeatedly reassuring his fellow campaigners, his confidence in the candidate restored. 

Sarah Holt, Comments 3&4

Nick's second paragraph is correct. Henry does want to win-really badly. Daisy is on the campaign board with him. Henry is now in the campaign emotionally. They have gotten too close for him to just leave and drop out all of a sudden. His decisions now affect more than just one person.
Naomi's first paragraph is also correct. Henry has realized that Stanton isn't the person Henry thought he was. Stanton is a sneaky governor. Henry is loosing his faith in Stanton because he has all these past issue. Henry is still in the campaign to finish that job at hand. He is ready to win this thing!

Peter Flamming, Comments 3 and 4

I agree with Michael when he talks about Burton being so ensnared within the campaign that there is no turning back. Henry Burton feels that all he can do now is plow on ahead through the storm and hope for the best. Mr. Burton has become too attached to Jack, like Michael said, and if he abandons the campaign now it would be a terrible betrayal to his greatest role model.

Naomi makes a great point in that Henry Burton feels almost as if the Stanton family has taken the place of his own. Henry's family is disfunctional and no doubt he feels a little void in his heart where a happy, healthy family belongs and his relationship with the Stantons has probably subconciously became the familial reltionship that Burton desires. Like Naomi says, Burton feels a need to stand by and support his new "family" just as any other person would support their own family, no matter what.

Michael Coralli Post 2

As the campaign continues on Burton starts spiraling down the rabbit hole. Everything he first thought about Stanton is quickly being replaced, but so are his feelings about Stanton. Burton started off with simple respect and slight admiration of Stanton, but now he's become almost engrossed with Stanton and his campaign, even though Burton can see that things are becoming futile and the best option would be to get out Burton can't help himself, he so caught up that he’s got to ride it out to the end. More and more Burton realizes just how much he put into this campaign, not only all his effort and time but also his personal relationships are becoming contained by the campaign. He never even saw it coming.
Burton won’t quit he can’t give up because it would be turning his back on a man he has built up to be a leader to be admired he ignores evidence to the contrary, scandals and affairs, and rigorously defends Stanton and his integrity. He refuses to leave the campaign; refuses even to have plans in case the campaign fails. He won’t look ahead; he won’t even look down at where he’s going. He’s looking to the sky and pretending everything is ok.

Janine Marill, Comments 3 and 4

1. I agree with David’s comments about Burton’s loyalty to Stanton. When Stanton vows to “work harder than any other candidate,” Burton believes that Stanton passionately cares about helping Americans. However, sometimes, sheer passion isn’t enough to achieve the lofty goal of being elected President. For this reason, Burton is uncertain about whether Stanton will be able to survive the controversy and remain in the presidential race. As Burton gains respect for Stanton, he convinces himself that Stanton has a chance to stay in the race. Not only is Burton loyal to Stanton, he is also convinced that Stanton could be successful.

2. I disagree with Cari’s claim that Burton’s relationship with Stanton prevents him from leaving the campaign. Clearly Burton has gained a significant amount of inside information about Stanton, and Burton is, to some extent, personally connected with Stanton. However, if Burton truly thought that Stanton would be unable to win the election, Burton would have left. Burton had several other promising job opportunities and connections within the political world. If Burton thought that Stanton had put himself into a position that he couldn’t dig himself out of, then Burton would have left the campaign to avoid further embarrassment.

Naomi Robert - Comments 3 and 4

I agree with Peter’s point that Henry believes in the campaign because he can’t imagine what else to do with his life. I think that whether Henry realizes it or not, the campaign is not just a huge part of his life, but everything in his life: his source of income, his day-to-day schedule, and his friends and girlfriend. Clearly, Henry has such a love and need for politics that he has surrounded himself with the game, and he believes in Stanton because of the desire to keep living in this comfortable way.

I disagree with Nick when he says that one of the main reasons for Henry staying in the campaign is for Daisy. Although their relationship is becoming closer, Henry still does not seem to have a real need to stay with Daisy. From the way Henry narrates the story, the couple is usually very casual and distant (Henry refers to their relationship as simply “campaign sex.”) Also, if Henry were to drop out of the campaign, I believe that the relationship with Daisy could still prosper (as is seen when Daisy admits that she would like to get to know Henry outside of the campaign, possibly in the Caribbean.) Besides this, I think Nick’s post had very good points.

David Dixon,Comments 3 and 4(Post 2)

I agree with Matt’s comment on Burton’s love of the “game.” He undoubtedly feels connected to the campaign unconsciously. Burton is a tactical genius and he is understandably connected to doing what he loves. Whether or not the campaign is failing, Burton enjoys the challenge of working out a solution strategically.
I agree with Naomi’s comment about Burton’s connectedness to the Stanton family. They have assumed the role of surrogate family to him and Burton is able to forgive their shortcomings. Burton feels that to leave the campaign would be to betray his family, and besides, he has certainly grown to like them.

Cari Heinz Comments from Post 2

I agree with Davids point. Burton realizes that all is crashing down in the campaign. Although all hope seems lost he sticks it out in loyalty to Stanton. Burton sees that Stanton is not the good person he thought he was in that now Burton can see Stanton's downfalls. Through it all, David is right, that Burton stays by Stanton's side.

I also agree with Philip in that Burton has lost that "pep in his step" that we see in the beginning of the book. Philip makes the point that Burton has a commitment to Stanton in staying in the race. He refuses to back down and he's a man of his word.

Philip Creviston comments 3 & 4

I agree with Kaila’s blog. Burton can not leave Stanton’s campaign. Stanton has pretty much adopted Henry because Stanton thinks he can trust him to do whatever he needs. If Henry quit Stanton would be crushed and lose his right hand man. He can’t quit until the campaign is over now, he is locked in.

I also agree with Joy’s post. She talks about Willie’s daughter being pregnant. Henry is troubled to think Jack could have has sex with an under aged person, pretty much having sex with a child. It just sends chills down his spine like Joy said. He is a little relieved when Stanton says it’s not his. We will find out though.

Joy Glaze, Comment 2

I agree with Ford’s point that Burton is beginning to believe his own candidate’s propaganda. Burton wants so much to be involved in something good and noble that he is willing to believe any lies that confirm that. Though he knows many of Stanton’s moral flaws, Burton is willing to overlook them so that he can convince himself that he is supporting a respectable candidate.
I also thought Philip made a good point about Burton’s conversation with Daisy concerning the Caribbean. This conversation revealed that Burton has more faith in the campaign than Daisy does. It is interesting to notice that he still appears to be holding out hope for a victory, even in the midst of all the losses.

Nick Murphy post numero TwO

It can be said that Henry Burton most likely remains with the Stanton campaign despite his concerns because of how impressed he is with Jack as a candidate and his way with people. However, there is no clear-cut reason as to why Henry Burton sticks with Jack Stanton for the long haul. Throughout the book so far, Henry has seen some flashes of brilliance from Stanton, yet Burton has become extremely worrisome over the darker qualities of his candidate. Just one of these darker qualities is revealed in chapter six when Burton finds out about Stanton and Willie McCollister’s daughter. Burton can’t believe it and explains this to the reader. So why would someone stay with this candidate after all he has put the campaign through with his controversy?
The answer could lie in the fact that Henry Burton may just want to win this thing. He may just be staying in this thing for the experience and the potential victory that could be achieved when it’s all over. Not to mention his relationship with Daisy. They are becoming more and more close to each other with their conversations on the phone (as in chapter six). Burton probably does not want to leave Daisy behind, which would happen if he was to suddenly drop out of the campaign.

Peter Flamming - Comments 1 and 2

I agree with Ford when he explains that Burton's narration is humanized and how this adds to the story. The humanization of Henry Burton really adds a sense of being present and witnessing it and this makes the narrator all the better. Sometimes, though, the over usage of personal opinion and feeling can clog up the storyline and make it harder to follow or understand, but Burton does a good job of keeping the storyline uncluttered.

Michael makes a great point that Burton's ethnicity plays an important part in the story. It, as Michael said, sets Mr. Burton apart, for good or for ill, and the author uses this as a way to ground us at a common level with the narrator. As far as the story is concerned, however, we shall see if his being black effects Burton’s narration and gives a greater reason for why the author made him black.

Sarah Holt, Post 2

I think Burton still supports Stanton, but not as much as he did at first. Burton has gotten to know the real Stanton. The real Stanton has a lot of secrets. Burton knows most of these secrets. Stanton is trusting Burton with a lot. This can be a good thing or a bad thing. It is good because Burton is a trustworthy person in the campaign. However, this is a bad thing because Stanton is relying on Burton a little too much. He is trusting Burton to deal with most of the problems (as we will see later in the chapters). Because he knows the secrets, I think he has no choice but to stay in the campaign. In chapter 5, Burton finds out that Stanton could be the father of a baby. Burton confronts Stanton about the possible baby, but Stanton wants Burton to clear up the problems by talking to William McCollister. This shows that Burton is too far into the campaign. If Burton decides to leave now, what would the rest of the campaigners think? Would he be leaving the campaign for the wrong reasons? Would he tell the press Stanton’s questions? These thoughts are the reason why Burton is stuck in the campaign.

Peter Flamming, Post Two

Henry Burton is stuck in a dead campaign and he knows it. But deep inside him he doesn't want it to die, he is too attached to Jack Stanton and too caught up the job to quit or lose hope of the campaign. He knows the poor judgment of Jack Stanton and realizes that they are running a campaign for a man who has affairs with friend's daughters. But Henry looks at Jack Stanton and sees a great man, one who stands for something greater than just politics. Speeches like the one Jack gave to the crowd at Portsmouth in chapter five convince Henry Burton that Jack Stanton is a man worth fighting for and thus his hope for the campaign lives on.

Burton realizes that his work is exhausting and in all likelihood, futile. But he almost cannot imagine what else to do with his life. When asked by his stepfather, Arnie, if he wanted to work with him after the campaign failed, Burton defends the campaign and says that all is not lost. It’s as if Burton can't imagine his life without politics and the campaign. This is a reason why he dodged around Daisy's proposition about running away to the Caribbean in chapter five. Henry Burton feels a need to be in the race, to believe in it, and to finish it.

Philip Creviston- POST 2

Henry Burton has changed in these last two chapters. He has turned into more of a depressed, trying to survive character. This is understandable with the Cashmere scandal and Willie’s daughter being pregnant. Burton describes this job as a game of chutes and ladders, which can be interpreted as they think they are getting somewhere but they eventually fall because of Stanton’s past or his actions. Henry though has not lost hope and is trying to pull things back together.

You can tell when Henry and Daisy were talking about going to the Caribbean. Henry fells like they may still have a chance while Daisy is talking about how they are dead. She talks about how all these things would have to happen (foreshadowing) for him to win but she doesn’t feel like they have much of a chance. Henry still has that glimmer of hope that they will somehow prevail and win the Democratic nomination for President. Another reason Henry never quit the Stanton campaign was that he made a commitment. He just straight up says that while talking to his mom and Arnie. He says “I made a commitment to Jack Stanton and I’ll see it through.” Burton also says later in the conversation that Stanton may have some weaknesses but Henry feels he can do well for this country. That is why Henry is still supports Stanton.

Cari Heinz Post 2

Burton has by now realized that maybe he was getting too close to Stanton. All the watching and learning he did at the begining has finally caught up to Burton. He finds that maybe he didnt want to know everything about Stanton, but now its too late. He's dug himself into a giant hole with no way out. Burton has to stick it out with his lips shut and chin up. Burton has found himself in a whirlwind of troubles and complete confusion and unsure of what to do.

In the begining of chapter 5, as the paternity questions begin, it shows just how uncomfortable Burton really is. On there way to see Momma Stanton makes the statement that Fat Willies daughter must have a paternity test. At this point Stanton tells Burton that he must be the one to tell Fat willie. Immediatly Burton says he was shivering. He askes "Why me?" But it was left up to Willie in he wanted to talk to him. Burton is left in an unfomfortable situation in which he wants to have nothing to do with it. Burton can't believe that the Stanton hes been so close to might possibly have done something of this extent. Perhaps there is still more for Burton to learn about Stanton that he has no clue about. Maybe Stanton isn't the good guy he appears to be.

Raymond Johnson Post Two

At this point in the Stanton campaign, Henry Burton has discovered many of Richard Stanton’s dark secrets. Burton discovers once again towards the end of chapter 5 that Stanton still hasn’t learned to change his smooth talking ways. In this scene Stanton makes a suggestive comment to a random college campaign volunteer as Burton and he walk down the street in Mancheseter. This is just yet another show of how reckless a candidate Stanton surely is. To make matters worse, Stanton also asks Burton to visit Mr. McCollister who claims Stanton impregnated his daughter.
Most likely the reason that Stanton stays involved in the campaign is that he has begun to believe the propaganda his party is using. He has become almost brainwashed by the campaign and completely tied to it. In chapter 5, Stanton claims to feel inspired by the public display of confidence in her son that Stanton’s mother makes while at the campaign headquarters. This shows how Burton is now buying into the image of Stanton as a well-behaved southern gentleman who loves his family and would never do anything wrong, even though he knows this idea could be no farther from the truth. Yet another reason for Burton remaining is that he now gets satisfaction from the success of the party no matter how twisted he knows the man he is promoting is. His morals and thinking have been clouded by the constant exposure to Stanton and his lies. He now believes in a party that doesn’t exist, an idealized version of the campaign he is supposed to be promoting. He tries to convince himself that Stanton is a trustworthy individual, even though contrary evidence is all around him. Pushing him further into the Stanton web of deception is his sexual relationship with Daisy which has continued to grow in chapters 5 and 6. These two chapters leave the reader wondering how far Burton will go to see Stanton elected.

A WORD OF CAUTION

Please be sure that you are digging into the chapters and finding something new to say. It's OK to say that Burton is too close to Stanton, but you need to select an example that has NOT been discussed and use it as an example--not just a quick mention; explain how your example works. I would like to see your best work here!

Peter Flamming, Post One

The author chooses Henry Burton as the narrator for Primary colors. Henry Burton is an ideal narrator for this novel as not only is he an expert on politics, but he is intelligent and highly observant. He also witnessed special aspects of Jack and Susan Stanton's life as he becomes a bigger part of the campaign and gets insight into the Stanton's inner circle.
Henry Burton sees and comprehends things that the ordinary person would fail to notice, such as reading Jack Stanton's incredible handshake in the first chapter. He also understands much more about Jack Stanton and learns to read his intentions by subtle movements or phrases, for example in chapter two at the meeting between Jack and Ozio at Fat Willie's restaurant, when Henry get a glance from Mr. Stanton and knows exactly what it means: some, but not all that much. At the same meeting between the Ozio and Stanton, Burton describes the events both as they occur and as he interprets them, giving us multiple views. Mr. Burton reads between the lines and analyzes events at another level, giving us an even greater insight into the campaign world.
Henry Burton is also one of the most normal people in the campaign's inner circle it seems and having, for instance, Lucille as narrator, might be too strange and analysis of events might be too different from our way of thinking. Burton also has a relatively mellow personality and doesn't input his opinion excessively; rather he observes and analyzes the situation which is ideal for a narrator.

David Dixon, Post Two

Henry Burton is in too deep. The campaign is already dead but he cannot pull out. Burton is both emotionally and physically invested into the campaign. Stanton is no longer the shining example he once was. Yet Burton remains, having faith in the candidate amidst the turmoil that is the New Hampshire campaign.
From the outset of chapter five, Burton is plagued with uncertainty. He must deal with the issues of Stanton’s declining poll numbers, but also with the issue concerning the pregnancy of Willie McCollister’s daughter. Questioning the morals of the man whom he has stood by and supported, Burton is deeply conflicted. Despite all his doubts, Burton recognizes his commitment to Stanton and realizes that he must stay with the campaign until they either win or lose.
Nevertheless, Burton needs something to give him a reason to believe. Upon landing in New Hampshire, Stanton delivers a pep talk to his campaign workers, vowing to “work harder than any other candidate.” Inspired by Stanton’s relentless spirit, Burton resolves to continue with redoubled enthusiasm. Burton is able to accept the shortcomings of the candidate because of his strong ties to Stanton and the campaign, but also because Stanton remains admirable through even the worst situations. True to his word, Burton sticks by Stanton’s side to the eventual revival of the campaign.

Naomi Robert - Post Two

Henry Burton begins to realize that Jack Stanton is not the hero he presumed the governor to be. By dealing with the many scandals, Henry looses faith in Stanton, and starts to believe that the campaign is headed down an inescapable path towards failure. I think that Henry continues his support and does not quit the campaign because of his closeness and loyalty to Stanton, and because Henry feels that Stanton has more good qualities than bad – like Stanton’s need to relate to the people and change the country for the better. In growing closer to Stanton family, Henry learns things that allow him to block out the times when Stanton used poor judgment.

In one instance in Chapter 6, some of Stanton’s inner circle staff members travel to Grace Junction to visit Momma. During some alone time with Stanton’s mother, Henry learns about Mabel Brockett’s restaurant, the Florida, and how Stanton helped the restaurant to become busy and well known in the town. The Florida used to only be popular in the black side of town, but after Stanton spent so much time publicizing the good food to his fellow white classmates, Mabel’s restaurant moved to the white side of town. Because of Stanton’s determination for a change in desegregation, integration began in the town. I think that recognizing Stanton’s impact on the people on such a small scale lets Henry believe in the governor’s ability to do the same across the nation.

This is also an example of Henry’s close relationship with the Stanton family, by showing how comfortably Henry has a personal conversation with Momma. After spending so much time through the thick and thin in the campaign trail, I think that Henry even feels obligated to stand by the Stanton family no matter what, because he feels closer to them than his broken, biological family.

Matthew Guzdial, Post Two

As the novel Primary Colors moves on, the narrator, Henry Burton, learns more and more about the questionable morality of his boss, Mr. Stanton. However, despite all he, and the audience along with him, learns, Mr. Burton never once considers leaving the campaign. There are several important reasons behind this.

The first, and most obvious, of the reasons behind Burton’s failure to leave the Stanton campaign is that, without him, there would no longer be a story. The narrator might be switched of course, and the audience would still know of the public half of the story, but without Henry Burton remaining with Jack Stanton, the entire premise of the novel is ruined.

But, the most important, and most subtle reason that Henry Burton does not leave the campaign has to do with the man’s love of the “game”. This is made most clear when Burton is speaking to his mother and stepfather in chapter five during the Los Angeles fundraising event. Though he does attempt to belay his statements by claiming them to be only temporary, Burton does try to explain the “great, tactile pleasure” he gets from working with Stanton. Later, in the Mansion meeting directly after New Hampshire, we learn specifically what parts of the campaign Henry Burton likes, being “figuring out what came next tactically and strategically”. This unconscious enjoyment of the game of politics, mixed in with Burton’s closeness to both Stantons is what seems to keep Burton going through all the tough points. As the audience we have a spectacular view of his mind, which always seems to race when something goes wrong, looking for what to do next. 

Janine Marill, Post 2

As the Stanton campaign seems to be stuck in a rough spot, Jack, Henry, and other campaign workers travel to Los Angeles to campaign. One could argue that it would be wise for Henry to quit the campaign, since the Stanton campaign was failing in New Hampshire and Stanton could potentially become involved in a paternity suit. Stanton’s alleged sexual encounter with a hairdresser made national headlines, and Stanton quickly became an embarrassment to the Democratic Party.

However, Henry remains faithful to Stanton. Henry’s faith in Stanton was built upon observations that most Americans would never experience in the same personal way. Henry watched Stanton connect with people in a unique way; Stanton absorbed and understood each person’s story as he shook hands.

Stanton had a sincere and fierce determination that Henry had never seen before. While some politicians enter a campaign for personal recognition or an alternate agenda, Stanton had an honest desire to improve the lives of all Americans.
When Stanton is almost certain that he is going to lose, he gives a candid speech to a group of working-class people in Portsmouth. Stanton tells them that he can’t give them their jobs back, but he will do everything he can to give them opportunities to succeed. This crowd may have been skeptical of Stanton, since they are frequent readers of national tabloids. Although they have heard about Stanton’s bad judgment in his personal life, they are still touched by Stanton’s sincerity and charm.

Henry has seen Stanton under a microscope during the campaign. They have discussed every detail of Stanton’s life and campaign. However, Henry is most moved by Stanton’s speech to the Portsmouth crowd. Henry is convinced that he will never find another candidate with the same exceptional qualities as Stanton. Despite Stanton’s flaws, he still has the strength touch the lives of Americans.

Kaila Brown, Post 2

Henry Burton has been confronted with many different situations that have lessened his respect for Stanton. But despite all of this Burton stills supports Stanton. I think that Burton stays with Stanton because he feels a sense of sorrow for Stanton. Stanton has been through a lot these past few chapters. In chapter 4, Stanton falls in the polls significantly due to an accusation. Then in chapter 5, they lose the New Hampshire primary, while they were happy that it wasn’t a landslide of a loss, it is still a loss. Then in chapter 6, in a poll asking if Stanton was trustworthy enough to be president 38% said no. In addition to that in a head-to—head with Harris, Harris beat him 24 to 8 on who was more "more thoughtful on the issues". Burton understands that Stanton has hard time and is slightly sympathetic to him. Stanton really respects Burton. Jack Stanton told Burton that he was family to them. If he were to leave the campaign, Stanton would be devastated and it would be another upset. It would be an additional downer for Stanton. Also Burton will not break his commitment to Stanton (says this in chapter 5 when eating with his parents). Burton doesn’t particularly enjoy the campaigning life but will not back down to a promise. Burton may refuse to break a commitment, because he saw commitments broken while his was an aide.

Joy Glaze, Post Two

Henry Burton, the formerly unbiased observer, has now become so completely involved in Jack Stanton’s campaign that he is unable to pull himself out. Even when Burton discovers that Stanton may be even more morally loose than he had believed, this “deputy to the campaign manager” is incapable of distancing himself from the race. Burton compares stepping away from the campaign to stepping into the light after spending a long time in the dark; it is blinding and discombobulating. Henry is no longer involved in the campaign just for himself, but for Jack, Susan, and especially Daisy. Whether he likes it or not, the campaign has become Burton’s life.
The situation with Willie McCollister’s daughter is especially bothersome to Burton. In Chapter 6, Burton is told that he will be expected to deal with Willie, and the thought of facing the McCollisters gives Burton shivers. Burton is torn between loyalty to Stanton and disgust at the terrible thing that Stanton might have done. Burton remarks that he couldn’t believe that Stanton would take advantage of Willie’s daughter, and he couldn’t believe that he hadn’t. The fact that Burton continues to support Stanton even in the midst of this moral dilemma is further proof that he has simply been pulled to deeply into the campaign.

POST NUMBER TWO--DUE MONDAY

By now, Burton realizes that the man he admired so much has questionable morals and often uses poor judgement. Yet Burton still suppports Stanton's candidacy. Why/how is he able to do so?

Most of you have done well so far. Do remember to be very specific and to support your writing with examples from CHAPTERS 5-6.

Jack Abbott- COMMENTS 1 and 2

1. I agree with Phillip's comment about how Henry is very self disciplined in his efforts to support Stanton's campaign. this tells us that Henry is very happy with his position in Stanton's ranks, and doesnt want to do anything that will jepordize that. I do however disagree with Phiilip in that i Henry would correct Stanton if he felt it would make a better campaign image.

2. I agree with Michael's statment about the very relaxed and funny dialogue before a more serious conversation, but in my opinion the relaxed tone was used simply to show that not everything in a campaign has be very serios and up tight. That there are relaxed times when someone who is enduring a campaign can sit back and not have to worry about theri image.

Jack Abbott- COMMENTS 1 and 2

David Dixon, Comments 1 and 2

1. I agree with Nick’s comments on choice of narrator. Burton is without a doubt a unique narrator, and able to react in a tense situation without losing any details. The only thing I disagree with was Nick’s statement about Burton being calmer than the others. When the situation becomes heated, Burtons is palpably nervous.
2. I wholly agree with Joy’s point about the way that Burton is able to look at the situation. He indeed lends the book a broader perspective, showing the reader more than what might seem like is going on.

Nick Murphy comments 1+2

I’m gonna agree with Cari on this one. She describes Burton’s relationship with Stanton quite interestingly, and it’s so true. When she says that he “saw every handshake, pat on the back, wink, and conversation as a time to learn from Stanton”, it makes sense as to why he would know much more information about Stanton than anyone else. Burton was studying Stanton’s actions, by far the best way to truly get to know someone. He knew Jack Stanton inside and out in this novel, which in turn allows him to reveal the important insider information that no one else sees.


I have decided to agree with Matthew simply because he agreed with me first.
(JUST KIDDING MS.PARRON)

But seriously the perceptiveness of Burton is clearly one the characteristics that makes him most qualified to be this novel’s narrator. The experience in the field is also a plus for Burton but it is mostly just the way his mind works and thinks and how he’s able to catch certain things that others are unable to detect. His choice of scene was a good one, using the Cashmere debate to show an example of how Burton puts his observation skills into play.

Janine Marill, Comments 1 and 2

1. I disagree with Kaila’s argument about why Burton was chosen as narrator. She thinks that Burton was chosen because of his ability to analyze a situation. In a political novel, the any narrator would analyze situations that arise in the story. Politics involves a lot of analysis, so a good author would find a way to weave this into the story, regardless of who the narrator is. Additionally, characters could have provided interesting and useful analysis. Personally, I think that Libby would make an interesting narrator, since she has a unique, outspoken personality, and has obviously been around the Stantons for a long time.

2. I agree with Matthew’s thoughts about Burton’s perceptiveness. Matthew discusses Burton’s perceptiveness, and mentions that the author uses Burton to convey important information about the characters. Burton notices everything from nuances in conversation to tiny details of body language. In almost every social situation, Burton’s comments help the reader understand the relationships between the characters. Burton’s commentary gives the reader a perspective that would be impossible to achieve with another narrator.

Cari Heinz Comments 1 and 2

Comment One
Philip makes a great point about how Henry decides to sit back and watch and listen rather then give himself away. He is shown to be very disciplined and this really helps him to gain as much information as possible. He's smart in everything he does and this will come in handy.

I do agree that Henry's race plays a somewhat important role. Because he is different from everyone else he is treated this way. This allows Henry to see how each person really acts. Although joy points out that he is only half black i don't think it truly comes into play. I'm sure he would relate to everyone just by the type of person he is, he's a politician.

Joy Glaze, Comment 1

I disagree with Jack’s point that Henry Burton portrays Stanton as a man of great character. Burton does not give a biased narrative which describes Stanton as “true and honest.” Burton gives the facts of Stanton’s character, revealing his flaws as well as his gifts.

I agree with Michael that Burton’s race plays a significant part in his role as narrator. I do not believe this significance comes from his simply being different from the other characters. Burton is not purely black; he is of mixed race. This mixture allows him to relate to both black and white characters in the story, creating an advantage which deepens the narrative.

Sarah Holt- Comments 1&2

I agree with Philip when he talked about the scene with the librarian. He is correct by saying the Henry Burton is self-disciplined. This shows that he really wants the job. Philip also mentioned that Henry keeps his cool. I believe this is from his experience in former politics.

Matthew’s first paragraph was really good. I like the way he talked about Burton’s characteristic-perceptiveness. You can tell by reading the first chapter that Burton is very aware of what is going on all around him; rather than just himself. He gives the reader a sense of what is going on with everyone.

Philip Creviston comments 1 and 2

1. I agree with what Naomi said in her post. Stanton does need to find time to wind down and he does that with Danny. As Naomi said Stanton could have quit like Henry did years ago but maybe because he gets time to wind down he won’t do that. Also how many other people know about these visits? Slim to none. So therefore Henry is definitely in Jack’s inner circle.

2. I disagree with Janine’s post. I don’t think that the example she gave has any relevance to the question that was asked. I mean honestly I would have done the same thing. Granted Henry does have a unique perspective which makes him a good narrator. Still I am not connecting your example to the question asked. Please correct me if I am wrong.

Raymond Johnson Comments 1 and 2

Comment One
I strongly agree with Matthew in saying that Burton’s perceptiveness allows us as readers to discover the thoughts of other characters. I think this is possible, not only because of Burton’s perceptiveness, but also because of his major role in the Stanton campaign. This position allows him to really view all the major characters for extended periods.

Comment TwoWhat Michael and Naomi said about Burton’s race being something that made the book stand out was true. It is interesting because there are not quite as many African-American politicians as there are representatives of other races. Burton makes for an entertaining character, because he is so aware of how differently characters in the book treat him from others. This is just another example of how Burton’s first-person perspective allows the reader to feel more involved in the story.

Michael Coralli Comment 1and 2

1. I'm calling you out Ford! I don't think it was a conscious choice for the author to humanize Burton. The choice to have Burton defend Jack and be shocked at the crazy situation hes been put in by this allegation is, i feel, more motivated to have contrast and try to humanize politics, not Burton himself. Being involved formerly in politics Klein is probably used to the assumption that all politicians are two-faced and sneaky little goobers. Instead he uses a unique character in a unusual situation to tell an almost Cinderella story which makes the reader forget about how they thought about politics before.

2. Matt i love the way you talk. All your points were clear and consice and i couldnt agree with them more. I particularly enjoyed you pointing out that the author goes above and beyond to make the first person narrative truly unique. while most first person narrative have some sort of flair or uniqueness about them Burton's way of telling the story through his eyes and sometimes from an almost removed observer makes Burton have the feel of an omniscient third person, while giving the personal and casual feel of the first hand narrative. But i'm not sure if Burton was used as a kind of translator for the simple layperson. Politics isnt so complex that you need translation, or I could be wrong. Not being a politician myself. whatever.

Matthew Guzdial, Comments 1 and 2

1. I disagree with Naomi’s assertion that Burton has a “very factual view” of the story. Indeed most of the novel is comprised of Burton’s assessments and opinions about the people around him. Every time he meets someone, whether it is another candidate or a crazed lesbian, Henry Burton always draws conclusions about that person’s personality and wants. But I believe this is actually a strength, not a weakness, because Burton’s opinion is waited with many years in the political ‘game’. Besides this tiny point I completely agree with the rest of Naomi’s post.

 

2. I agree with everything within Nick’s post, all of his points were great. But the one and only thing I didn’t like within his post was the choice of scene he used to illustrate his analysis. I believe that Henry’s cool in this situation has more to do with waking up early and being shouted at then anything else. His actions after Libby’s call seem mechanic, merely following the crazed woman’s shouted orders. It is only when he reaches the Stanton suite that he seems to revive somewhat, becoming more himself as he observes the Stantons’ private lives. A better scene might have been one of the many violent meetings of the campaign staff, in which Henry Burton seems to be more an audience member himself then a staffer, but that is simply my opinion. 

Kaila Brown comment 1 and 2

comment one
I agree with Nick. I think that Burton’s ability to stop and think before he reacts is a strong characteristic. This quality is helpful in many different situations. It also is a quality that is helpful to Stanton. Stanton has his moments were rage takes over and he is livid. He cusses and scrams at everyone. Burton can calm Stanton and help him make a decision that won’t jeopardize Stanton’s campaign. Which I know that Stanton greatly appreciates.

comment two
I would have to agree with Naomi’s comment on Janine’s comment. Burton was not the only staff member that didn’t know about Stanton’s past arrest. It was not Burton’s fault that this was unknown. Stanton just didn’t inform his staffers. Of course Burton was going to be thrown off guard, a reporter had just informed him of some information that he should have already known. Maybe it is not Burrton’s fault for not knowing that piece of info, but Stanton’s for not informing his staff of this arrest.

Naomi Robert - Comments 1 and 2

Comment 1
I disagree with Janine’s comment that Henry has a unique perspective in response to the reporter’s questions. I think that this is one instance where pretty much everyone on Stanton’s staff would have been startled and given a similar narration displaying stress, because most did not have prior knowledge of this incident. Henry's background and views had little to do with his reaction, in this case.

Comment 2
I think it is interesting that Michael brought up race. I think this is a very important characteristic in the novel, and I like that the author chose to make Henry African American (even though the Clinton administration character he is based on is Caucasian), because this racial group is not the common stereotype in presidential politics. I think it subconsciously allows the reader to picture an administration focused on change.

Philip Creviston- POST 1

This story is narrated by Henry Burton who is a former congressional aide of a well known political figure. He is being hired by Jack Stanton who is running for President. He turns into Stanton’s main man but he must earn his trust first which does come at a price. For example in the middle of chapter one when Stanton and the librarian come out of the bedroom.

Henry could have easily said, “What the heck?” or “Are you serious?” or even “Man, I could make so much money off of this” (as we see later in the book) but he kept his cool and didn’t say a word until Stanton asked him a question about her program she has going at her library. This shows that Henry has self discipline and also that he can keep his mouth shut. We can tell by what the author says that Henry is beyond himself but he doesn’t show Stanton because he wants this job and doesn’t want to show any sort of weakness that he knows would hurt him.

This also shows how Henry is level minded and why he was a very good choice for narrator. He keeps his cool in many instances in these first four chapters when others are freaking out. Also his experience makes him very knowledgeable so it gives us more perspective on what is going on in the story.

Also not part of the question but does anyone else see the Time magazine references? Ironic that the author works for Time.

Cari Heinz Post 1

The story as told by Hentry Burton is extremely in depth. The way Henry watches and studies Jack Stanton allows you to feel in the stroy. Henry seems very analytical about everything Stanton does. He learns somethinig from all of Stanton's actions. Henry Burton saw every handshake, pat on the back, wink, and conversation as a time to learn from Stanton. With Henry's close inside connections the reader is able to really get into Stanton and the peoples around his personal lives. Everything is examined and put out there is if to leave no stone unturned. In chapter one Henry watches Stanton during the speech at the library. As Stanton becomes emotional Henry sees that he might be week in some aspect. He is unsure still but questions every word and gesture and links them to personality. With Henry Burton as the narrator everything is explained and left understandible to the common reader. This really helps you to better understand the book itself.

Nick Murphy- Post One

The “anonymous” Joe Klein decided to narrate the story through the eyes of Henry Burton, the man who is added to Jack Stanton’s campaign staff at the beginning of the story. This is a good choice by Klein because of how different Burton acts compared to the other people he encounters who strive towards the success of Stanton. These people have a fast-paced, ‘get things done right now’ attitude towards campaigning for their candidate, allowing them to complete tasks quicker and address their important issues with great confidence. Yet it leaves them with a weakness which Burton does not possess (in terms of narration). Henry Burton asks more questions, usually stopping and thinking about possible outcomes of situations, allowing him to be much more observant than other characters, ultimately forcing him to examine all sides of an issue. He is also much more relaxed than the rest of the staff, displaying poise and keeping things professional, as opposed to the swearing, uptight demeanor of the other people Burton meets throughout his experience with Stanton.

It is for these reasons that Henry Burton was the best choice for the narrator, an example of it being shown in chapter four when Henry is woken up by Libby early in the morning to be told that Cashmere McLeod had obtained taped evidence of her and Stanton’s telephone conversations. Libby clearly had a sense of urgency in this call to Henry, rapidly dishing out commands to him so that the message could be relayed to Jack Stanton as soon as possible. When Henry wanted to ask her some further questions to receive more information, she quickly scolded him and repeated her instructions. Henry keeps his cool unlike Libby (who is clearly distraught at this point) and delivers the message to Stanton. Through his experience in politics, Burton can see the darker side of Stanton start to show itself when he admits that he did indeed have the intimate conversations with McLeod. Burton simply proves to the reader that his combination of observation, comprehension, and experience make him the best choice for the narrator.

Jack Abbott- POST ONE

The author, whoever it may be, chose to narrate the story through Henry Burton. I think this was an easily made choice since Burton is very close aide to presidential candidate Jack Stanton. This is shown by Burton's in depth knowledge about Stanton's campaign. Burton proved to have first hand experience listening in and learning from Stanton. in chapter two Burton speaks of how true and honest Stanton was to the people he talked to and how he always extended himself to others before entering or exiting a political event. I think this displays a great deal of character on Jack Stanton and his candidacy. This character that Burton has placed on Stanton is never more obvious then when Burton talks about Stanton's trip to the Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless and women's shelter.

Burton's in-depth knowledge of Jack Stanton's campaign proves to be very informative as to the rigors and deceptoins of politics in our country today. It also helps to draw a visual image of how exactly Jack Stanton deals with the rigors that campaigning for president present. Henry Burton was the perfect narrotor for this novel.

Sarah Holt, Post One

“Anonymous” decided to write the book Primary Colors through Henry Burton. Henry Burton was an excellent choice as narrator because he was an ex-congressional aide. He knows the inside “bits and pieces” for the campaign. Henry is close enough to be in-the-know; but far enough to be able to stand back and observe.
Henry shows how he examines Governor Jack Stanton in the first chapter. He has watched Jack’s movements and how he presents himself all through a simple handshake. Though the gestures may seem polite and sociable, Burton knows better. We can tell this from Burton’s choice of words. Governor Jack has different modes. Burton has caught on to these modes and the reader is informed. Also in the first chapter, Burton explains Stanton’s “listening modes.” As they were walking with the librarian, he was listening “heavily”. He was paying attention to more details. This shows Burton knows what Stanton’s ways of campaigning are.
Henry Burton has been in the campaign long enough to know what is going on around him. This is good for the reason that the reader can tell what’s going on and what Burton thinks about the situations. The reader can understand the background thoughts and insights of all the characters rather than the main character.

Michael Coralli Post One

This little piece of prose is narrated by Henry Burton a former political aid who happens to be an African American. Burton’s ethnicity plays an important aspect in the story as it is a common ground between the author and the reader that can continually be touched on. And whether we like it or not it sets the Henry as a character apart. As you read it is easy to forget that Henry is black but then he will have a small quip or offhand comment that brings you back to where you started and I believe this in an important tool for the author as a sort of check-up with the reader every once in a while to remind them just what’s going on. The narration itself is simple and concise and you have the benefit of first-hand experience in what’s going on in the story instead of the clear-cut third-person omniscient narration where everything is laid out nice and neat for you. The opinions and comments Burton makes give you an opportunity to disagree or connect further with the narrator.

One of my personal scenes in the book occurs at the beginning of chapter 2 when after a short dialogue and description of a new character Richard. A very funny albeit inappropriate event occurs between Richard and A young muffin working for gov. Jack Stanton. This interesting event is an essential part to the exposition to the story because it sets up a host of unusual characters and interesting situations into which Henry is thrust and handles it with outside calm but the reader is granted with a wonderful view into what Burton is thinking so you get a feel for what sort of composure it takes to be in a higher campaign office and as an undertone the two-facedness of politics and the common practice of saying one thing and meaning another. I think this situation was in particular use because of the insanity and hilarity of the situation is a cushion for the reader before they are thrust into more serious and meaningful situations where there is no comedy only the raw shock and scramble to control the affects.

Kaila Brown post one

Henry Burton, a former congressional aid who is now part of the Stanton campaign, narrates the book Primary Colors. The author most likely chose Burton as the narrator because of his ability to analyze a situation. Because Burton is a former congressional aide, he already knows how politicians work. Burton didn’t like how politicians would compromise, and backstab to get what they wanted. Therefore, Burton has learned how to determine if a politician has a genuine good interest at heart. One example is chapter one where Burton is in the car with Mr. and Mrs. Stanton. During the car ride to the “hotel”, the three of them are having a conversation about the literacy meeting. After Burton mentions creating a hunger for the illiterate people, Mr. Stanton goes off on a tangent. During this spiel, Burton is able to draw the conclusion that the Stanton’s are in this for the good of the American citizens. These analysis are helpful throughout the book in the since that Burton can break down certain situations. He is able to question the validity of one’s actions. This gives the reader an in-depth description of each character. Which in turn helps the reader really gets to know the characters, and understand them.

Raymond Johnson, Post 1

Primary Color’s is told through the eyes of Henry Burton, who plays the role of adviser to Jack Stanton in his presidential campaign. It is evident by the way that he tells the story that Burton has been around politics for a long time. His frequent quips and opinions about events occurring around him provides the reader with an experienced commentary throughout the book. Through Stanton, the reader gets to truly experience all that goes on in a presidential campaign.
In the middle of chapter four, Jack Stanton is placed under fire when he is accused of having an affair. Burton is assigned with the task of controlling the damage the affair might have on Stanton’s campaign. He makes the statement that the campaign had stopped being about the public, and was now more about the media. This is an example of Burton’s knowledge of politics and is a result of years of experience. The reader also gets a glance further into Burton’s past when he tells a story of almost drowning as a child. He claims to feel the same fear in this part of the campaign as he did back when he was in the ocean.
After listening to tapes used as support in the alleged affair, Burton discovers them to be fake. Under the guidance of his assistant, Olivia Harden, Burton pays a visit to a lawyer named Ray Culligan. Because of Burton, the reader experiences the shadier side of politics from a first person view. Olivia forces Culligan to a confession about the alleged affair at gunpoint. It is made apparent that Burton has never experienced such violence before and is alarmed by it. This is yet another example of the way Burton is humanized in his telling of the story. This personal account of Stanton’s is what makes Primary Colors such an interesting book.

Naomi Robert, Post One

The novel is told through the eyes of Henry Burton, the young political consultant to governor and presidential candidate Jack Stanton. Henry is a very omniscient narrator because he is very involved in the political life of the governor. Because of his right-hand position and the amount of time spent with the Stanton, he knows more about the candidate than anyone else - possibly even Stanton himself. He tells a very factual view of what happens, but is also very observant and skilled at interpreting Stanton’s motives.
In chapter 4, the narrator talks about the times in Manchester that Stanton spent at Dunkin’ Donuts visiting the crippled employee named Danny Scanlon. The governor would go very late at night and chat with Danny about trivial things like college basketball. Seeing how hardworking and cheerful Danny was, Stanton was able to once again find a purpose in his campaign, to make better lives for dedicated workers like Danny. Only someone so entangled with the life of Stanton would know about these visits, and be able to understand their significance and affect on Stanton.
Because of his legislative political background, Henry understands how stressful politics can be and the need to find time to wind down. The close relationship with Stanton allows Henry to recognize that without finding such a purpose to continue on, the governor might have given up or quit (much like Henry did when he ‘retired’ years prior.)

Matthew Guzdial, Post One

Within the novel Primary Colors, the author uses the first-person narrative of Henry Burton. However, “Anonymous” is not limited by this decision because of a few key characteristics of Mr. Burton, the most important of which is his perceptiveness. Because of this characteristic, the author is able to transcend the usual bonds of first-person narration, giving us clues into the thoughts and wants of the other characters within the story.

A good example of this trait can be found near the end of chapter three, during the scene leading up to the first debate. In the scene, young Mr. Burton watches the governor and how he reacts to those around him. He tells the audience of how the governor seems to be driven crazy by Lawrence Harris’ solitude, seeming to become even more charming because of it.

This perceptiveness of the narrator, added in with the man’s political backing, allows the author to explain complex political ideas to the audience without much difficulty. A good example of this is in the later debate in chapter four, during the notorious Cashmere scandal. Mr. Burton catches the all-important use of the word ‘moral’ by Lawrence Harris. If the dialogue had been given straight, the audience would not have known the implications of the word. But, through the narrator’s musings, the meaning behind it was revealed. 

Joy Glaze, Post One

The author chose to narrate the story through the voice of Henry Burton. Burton is an ideal narrator, because he is an insider in the campaign but also has the advantage of hindsight. At the time of the story, he was deeply involved and affected by what was going on within the campaigning process. Because the story is told in past tense, Burton is also able to give a broader perspective. The reader is able to see things from both the inside and out.
In the first chapter, before Burton is officially on board with the campaign, the reader learns his first impressions of Governor Jack Stanton. Burton observes Stanton at an adult literacy program, where Stanton’s people skills are excellently showcased. Through Burton’s narrative, the reader is able to view Stanton as an outsider would see him, but with the added knowledge of someone familiar with the behavior of political candidates.
Burton gives both a retelling of what was going on at the program as well as a commentary on Stanton’s motives. Though to the average person Stanton would have just seemed like a friendly Governor, Burton was able to reveal the message behind of each of his significant handshakes. This kind of combination between bystander observation and experienced analysis is what makes Henry Burton such a great choice for narrator.

David Dixon, Post One

A former congressional aide, Henry Burton is the go-to guy of presidential hopeful Jack Stanton. While he is intimately involved in the campaign, he offers a unique point of view that shows readers the inner workings of the Stanton campaign.
Burton is experienced in politics, yet he realizes the corruption which often follows. Because he knows politics well, Burton assesses each of Stanton’s actions to determine the integrity of the candidate he supports. For this reason, Burton is a reliable narrator and, as he is not the candidate, he is able to take a step back and look at a situation with impartiality.
Burton’s unique point of view is evidenced in chapter three, where the campaign takes travels to New Hampshire, and Burton is able to view the goings-on of the debate on several different levels. He is able to comment on the conversation between Stanton and the other debaters, but also on the sidebar conversation of Mrs. Stanton and Martha Harris, all while taking an objective look at the debate. His perspective offers different views of the debate, in chapter three, but also of the campaign as a whole. Burton remains objective and makes decisions logically, providing an accurate point of view for the story.

Janine Marill, Post One

This story is narrated by Henry Burton, one of the inside staffers for Jack Stanton’s Presidential campaign. The author likely used Burton as the narrator because Burton is close to the action of the campaign. In some cases, Burton is knowledgeable enough to answer questions from the press about Burton’s past and his political expertise.
However, in one embarrassing circumstance, a reporter from the Los Angeles Times asks Burton whether Stanton was arrested during the Vietnam War. Although he is mortified, Burton admits that he has no idea whether Stanton was arrested or not. The reporter later catches up with Stanton, and Stanton admits that he was arrested at a radical demonstration before the Democratic National Convention in 1968.
Burton is a perfect narrator because he has a unique perspective on this situation. Burton has invested an enormous amount of time to Stanton’s campaign, and Burton is thrown off guard when he realizes that he didn’t know about a significant event in Stanton’s past. When Burton discusses the situation with other campaign staffers, it is clear that the reporter caught them off guard. Burton’s narration conveys the stress that he and the other staffers feel about this “roadblock” in the campaign.

QUESTION NUMBER ONE!

Be sure to read the guidelines below; let me know if you have any questions.

First post: Read Chapters 1-4.

Consider the author's choice of narrator for this story. Select one passage or incident that interests you--give chapter #, but no page, as they are not consistent.

Discuss how the narrator's "voice" affects the telling. What in his background, his beliefs, his experiences, comes through? How is the author making use of this narrator? Be sure to tell what incident you are referring to without telling the story. Just enough so that your readers know what scene you are discussing.