On The Page: "My Life As A Radical Lawyer"

"My Life As A Radical Lawyer" by William M. Kunstler (1994)

I'm currently reading Kunstler's autobiography of his life as a lawyer often fighting on the unpopular side of popular opinion. The book starts with his account of the trial of the Chicago Eight (which quickly become the Chicago Seven). Kunstler's telling of the trial is fast moving, with lots of good gossip and quotes, as well as a welcome dose of self criticism (as well as the expected self-congratulation).

I picked up this book for a few reasons: one, to attempt to remedy my spotty knowledge of the 1960's; two, because I recently saw an excellent documentary about Charles Garry ("The People's Advocate"), Bobby Seale's chosen lawyer for the trial, which sparked my interest in the case; and, three, hoping for some inspiration in the form of lawyers who have fought the good fight. More than just lawyers who have received acclaim for the great work they have done, I was hoping this book would go a little further, talking about the challenges of doing such work and the toll it can take on a lawyer's personal life. So far, I am pleasantly surprised. Despite being arrogant (which I expected), Kunstler seems to have been pretty aware (at least in retrospect) of his occasional naivete, self-obsession, and susceptibility to fame and acclaim. I'm definitely enjoying the read thus far.