“Tucker Max is a vile, scummy, abrasive creature that barely qualifies as a human.” This critical response is published as a blurb on the back of Author Tucker Max’s new book, Hilarity Ensues. He is responsible for starting his own literary genre known as “fratire,” and notorious for his wild antics, aggressive partying and general belligerence. He was also included in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential List in 2009 and is responsible for 3 New York Times bestsellers.
How could such a “vile, scummy, abrasive creature” sell millions of copies of his works?
Commentary
Many believe that the only people who could appreciate the indecency of Tucker Max would be other partiers, but this is not the case. Judging by Tucker Max’s anecdotes, people who enjoy his works include mothers, feminists, lawyers and “nerds.”
So how can this broad spectrum of people appreciate his work? There are multiple examples, all coming from Tucker Max himself.
Feminists can read Tucker Max without cringing because he doesn’t even pretend to care about feminism. A female writer who calls herself a feminist even referred to him as her “ideal man” in the latest book’s blurb.
Mothers can read Tucker Max because apparently his exuberant confidence is what they want their children to display; his overall success encompasses the dreams parents have for their children.
Lawyers can read Tucker Max because Tucker Max went to Duke Law School, received his JD and escaped the mundane lifestyle that most lawyers are swept into. He gives them hope.
Nerds can read Tucker Max because at the end of the day, everyone wishes they could have his reckless abandonment and unmatched wit in the social and the real world.
Some may say these theories are illogical, but in actuality they do have basis. As shameful as it is for us to admit, there are admirable aspects of his character. No matter how much we hate him as a person, his writing is so enticing that it is almost ironic how vulgar his stories are.
Tucker Max is a horrible person. However, there is no denying his brilliance. He has made millions writing about his raunchy experiences and less-than-admirable morals.
He has transformed his ridiculous antics into a literary phenomenon.