Clouds and Eclipses

Gore Vidal, renowned for his novels and essays, also crafted a compelling body of short fiction during the 1940s and 1950s that explores themes of adolescence and sexuality. This collection, which includes stories like "Three Stratagems" and "The Zenner Trophy," offers a glimpse into the young artist's insightful and often humorous perspective. Gathered in the 1956 volume A Thirsty Evil, these stories provide an intimate look at Vidal’s early literary talent.