Rachel Kushner, who first gained fame as a novelist, is one of America's best essayists.
Kushner has given Harper's magazine's esteemed Easy Chair column a fresh jolt of urbane commentary.
In the tradition of lauded Easy Chair columnist Bernard DeVoto in the mid-20th century, Kushner writes with grace and precise observation. While participating in the action, she displays an amused detachment and satiric sympathy for human failings.
Kushner in her column in the magazine's current issue gives a slice of life look at Los Angeles, where she lives in a historic neighborhood east of Echo Park Lake.
With its renovated 19th century homes and view of downtown Los Angeles, the neighborhood is a favorite of film-makers seeking to show the city's past. Kushner says Jack Nicholson portraying the sardonic detective Jake Geddes in the 1930s-era film "Chinatown" parked his roadster in front of her neighbor's house.
Producers of the "Fast and Furious" series also film in the neighborhood, causing major disruptions. Kushner gives a vivid account of how the "Fast and Furious" crews invade the streets of her community like a conquering army.
Kushner points out that most people in Los Angeles work outside of the film industry. Yet, the business overshadows life in the sprawling metropolis.
The column indicts the film industry's arrogance, while recognizing its seductive glamour and entertainment power.
While supporting a neighborhood protest against the "Fast and Furious" production, she gave the filmmakers permission to shoot scenes of downtown L.A. from her back yard.
She's an observer and part of the story. As with the late Joan Didion, that brings a camera-like objectivity.
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