Book Review: Deadwood by Pete Dexter

 

Deadwood doesn't rely on the usual stereotypical western tropes. You won't find main street duels, stampedes, or bounty hunters, although there are quite a few prostitutes. Deadwood does tell a down-to-earth story about a man living in pre-industrial America who happens to be friends with the most famous western hero, Wild Bill Hickock. This book is not about Wild Bill Hickock though, it's about Charley Utter. Charley is a successful business-man who accompanies Wild Bill in the twilight of his fame and as they settle into the untamed town of Deadwood they meet a host of memorable characters. 

Characters like the Bottle Fiend, who is a soft-brain who has attempted suicide more time than anyone can remember. Or Al Swearingen, who runs the brothel with relentless venom and violence. Or Charley's nephew Malcolm Nash, who, after a traumatic experience, becomes a vengeful priest. Bullock, the apathetic sheriff. The Langrishe's own the theater and have their own secrets. And of course, there is Calamity Jane, who falls in love with Wild Bill, thinks she was sent by God to save people and shrieks like an eagle. 

The detailed characters in this book are the grounding force that brings this tale into vivid relief. Pete Dexter doesn't shy away from the dark humanity that is often brushed over, exaggerated, or otherwise idealized in many western stories. He also doesn't shy away from the complexities of love, lust, and infatuation that entangle real relationships. 

Through Charley Utter, we find that Deadwood is just a microcosm of any town where its inhabitants struggle to cooperate but somehow manage to survive, mostly. Personal prejudices, vices, and hopes are tested and weighed as characters balance their desires with the harsh realities of their environment, which illuminates the quintessential balance of human existence. As we fight to survive in the world we fight not only with the world and others but we must also fight with ourselves.  

The writing in this book is superb and while it isn't the most exciting book I have read I found it never the less enthralling. Deadwood is a meandering and methodical character study more than it is a typical western and I highly recommend it.