Roman, Elliott, and Robert Caro: Live in Conversation

Public Reception

The initial reception of Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker' was a mix of surprise and acclaim. Despite expecting limited sales, Caro was overwhelmed by the public's response, including a memorable encounter with Joseph Heller, who praised the book's review in the New York Times 1. Caro reflects on the emotional impact of the book's reception, particularly from those affected by Robert Moses's projects, like the displaced residents of the Cross Bronx Expressway 1.

The only thing that matters is the space. This guy usually only writes this law for you. He wrote this.

--- Joseph Heller

The book's subtitle, "The Fall of New York," underscores Moses's controversial legacy, which Caro believes remains unchanged even after 50 years 2.

   

Historical Influence

Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker' has significantly influenced historical writing and public understanding of urban development. The book transformed the perception of Robert Moses from a celebrated builder to an urban design villain, highlighting the detrimental effects of his projects on New York City 3. Caro's meticulous research, including interviews and archival work, unveiled the systemic inequalities perpetuated by Moses, such as the exclusion of minorities from public spaces like Jones Beach 4.

You have a city where people commute to the commuting time in New York then was by. I forget how they measured. It was the longest commutes in the world.

--- Robert Caro

The book's enduring legacy is attributed to Caro's humanistic approach, which continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike 5.

   

Unseen Contributors

The storytelling in 'The Power Broker' was shaped by numerous individuals whose contributions remain largely unseen. Robert Caro acknowledges figures like Belle Moskowitz, a powerful political figure in the 1920s, whose influence was significant yet underrepresented in his work 6. Caro's extensive archives, filled with interviews and notes, hold untold stories and insights that he hopes future historians will explore 7.

There's so much in it in the archives that no one knows that I want people to know.

--- Robert Caro

These archives, measuring 20,000 linear feet, are a testament to Caro's dedication to capturing the complexities of history and the individuals who shaped it 7.