1954 Diary

Cover 1954 Diary

Publication of “The Wicked Pavilion.” A new friendship with Gore Vidal, whose championship would help launch the Dawn Powell revival 30 years later. Visits to her son Jojo at Manhattan State Hospital on Ward’s Island. Reviewing books for the New York Post.

1954 Diary excerpt A P02 29

Powell’s early response to Gore Vidal, who would do so much to revive her memory.

1954 Diary excerpt B P02 30

Even as she approached publication day, Powell continued to fret over “The Wicked Pavilion,” which had taken her longer than any other novels to complete. It became her best-selling book during her lifetime and she enjoyed one week at the bottom of the New York Times Bestseller List.