Perspective

Sixteen essays about the First Amendment from the man who changed the way America reads literature

A lawyer, literary agent, and author, Charles Rembar never stopped fighting against the puritanical laws that prevented Americans from consuming controversial art. These so-called anti-obscenity laws prevented the sale and distribution of books that, at the time, were considered racy, salacious, or downright pornographic.

During a time of great political and cultural upheaval, Rembar was instrumental in ushering in a significant change in how America views literature, and in maintaining the importance of our First Amendment rights. Perspective collects sixteen essays written between 1967 and 1974, each primarily concerned with the “scope and meaning” of the First Amendment. Divided into three sections, Perspective offers insight into the major “constitutional crises” of the time: freedom of expression, the right to a fair trial, and impeachment.

Miles away from dry legalese, Rembar’s conversational, often humorous style makes this collection as enjoyable as it is informative. His thought-provoking essays—whether about the Watergate hearings, the trial of Dr. Spock, Bobby Seale’s imprisonment, or literary and artistic freedom—have never been more relevant than they are today.