Graydon Carter, who served as the editor of Vanity Fair for over 25 years, has made a name for himself as a notable figure in the world of magazine publishing. Known for his distinct white hair and sophisticated style, Carter has chronicled the lives of the elite while sharing elements of his personal journey. His forthcoming memoir, “When the Going Was Good: An Editor’s Adventures During the Last Golden Age of Magazines,” reflects on his fascinating experiences in New York magazine culture during the 1980s and beyond. Despite his successes, Carter remains grounded, crediting his Canadian roots and experiences for shaping his career.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Reflections on a Unique Journey |
| 2) The Catalyst for Change in Publishing |
| 3) Influencing Pop Culture and Iconic Figures |
| 4) The Essence of Curation in Events |
| 5) A New Chapter: Air Mail and Beyond |
Reflections on a Unique Journey
Graydon Carter’s ascent in the magazine industry is a narrative of unexpected beginnings and remarkable achievements. Born and raised in Ottawa, Carter grew up in a middle-class environment, which instilled in him resilience and an adaptable spirit. He often reflects on how his Canadian background shaped his distinctive viewpoint on both life and work. In a recent interview, Carter remarked,
“Canadians are not weak. We may look affable on the outside, but if you can survive playing hockey on an open rink in 30° weather, you develop a spine.”
This embodiment of strength and character would help him navigate the high-stakes world of magazine publishing successfully.
After leaving college without graduation, Carter ventured to New York City in 1978, armed with ambition but dressed inappropriately for the sweltering summer heat. Arriving at his first job interview clad in a thick Canadian tweed coat, he vividly remembers his nerves and the uncomfortably humid conditions. His tenacity paid off when he landed a job that set him on a path toward what he describes as the golden age of magazine journalism. The irony of starting a career in heat while wearing winter clothing has remained a metaphor for the unusual twists and turns of his professional life.
The Catalyst for Change in Publishing
The landscape of magazine publishing changed dramatically in the 1980s, providing an opportune environment for Carter’s talents to flourish. As he notes, the rise of the investment banker transformed New York City into a vibrant showcase for wealth and excess. In this context, he co-founded Spy magazine, a satirical publication that was both cheeky and brave in its approach to journalism. The magazine sought to expose the lifestyle and attitudes of the powerful, and Carter played a crucial role in defining its bold voice.
One of the notable stories he recounted involved real estate mogul Donald Trump. Carter spent three weeks closely following Trump for a feature story, where he painted an unflattering portrait of the man who would later become a political figure, describing him as a “short-fingered vulgarian.” This irreverent characterization reportedly irked Trump and set the tone for a contentious relationship moving forward. This story exemplifies Carter’s unique ability to mix humor and criticism, a defining aspect of his editorial style.
Influencing Pop Culture and Iconic Figures
Carter’s career reached new heights when he became the editor of Vanity Fair in 1992, marking a significant chapter in his journey. Under his leadership, the magazine became synonymous with cutting-edge journalism and celebrity culture. It was during this time that he orchestrated cover stories that would capture the cultural zeitgeist, including interviews and features with prominent figures such as Monica Lewinsky and Caitlyn Jenner. He was adept at navigating the complexities of public relations while ensuring that Vanity Fair remained a platform for both serious journalism and entertaining storytelling.
One of Carter’s most notable cover subjects was actress Jennifer Aniston. Her appearance on the cover, shortly after her highly publicized breakup with actor Brad Pitt, became the best-selling issue in the magazine’s history. Carter reflected on this phenomenon, stating,
“You look back now, you think, ‘What was all the fuss?'”
Such moments encapsulate the intersection of celebrity, media, and public interest that defines Carter’s editorial ethos.
The Essence of Curation in Events
Carter also became known for his expertise in curating high-profile events, particularly the famous Vanity Fair Oscar party, which was known as the party of the year in Hollywood. He famously remarked, “It became not how to get people in, but how to keep people out,” highlighting the exclusivity and allure of the gathering. For Carter, curation goes beyond mere guest lists; it encompasses the experience and atmosphere created at events, emphasizing a “no VIP sections” policy in which all guests were treated equally, regardless of status. This philosophy created a nurturing environment for social interaction among various personalities, making the party unforgettable.
In Carter’s eyes, curation also applies to his overall editorial strategy. He believes that what intrigues him will likely pique the interest of a broader audience. Such a perspective on content creation ultimately helped shape the magazine’s identity during his tenure. He masterfully balanced serious reporting with stories that spark public conversation, ensuring that Vanity Fair maintained its cultural currency throughout his years of service.
A New Chapter: Air Mail and Beyond
Carter stepped down from Vanity Fair in 2017, marking the end of an era and his shift toward retirement. However, retirement did not rest at the forefront of his agenda. Instead, he embarked on a new venture, launching “Air Mail,” an email newsletter that has garnered considerable readership across the globe. With around half a million subscribers in 219 countries, Air Mail offers thoughtful features, travel recommendations, and curated shopping tips, showcasing Carter’s enduring passion for engaging content creation.
At 76, Carter remains active in the industry he loves and openly acknowledges that he has “stumbled” along the way, a testament to his understanding that the road to success is often paved with mistakes. He elaborated on this notion by stating,
“Life is a bone yard of minor mistakes and fumbles.”
This candid recognition reflects his belief in the importance of learning and evolving throughout one’s career.
Key Points
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Graydon Carter, former editor of Vanity Fair, has significantly influenced the magazine industry over his 25-year career. |
| 2 | His memoir, “When the Going Was Good,” chronicles his experiences amid the golden age of magazines. |
| 3 | Carter co-founded Spy magazine and was known for his satirical and critical approach to journalism. |
| 4 | He played a pivotal role in shaping pop culture through his editorial decisions at Vanity Fair. |
| 5 | Carter’s latest venture, Air Mail, has amassed a large international readership, proving his adaptability in the media landscape. |
Summary
Graydon Carter’s illustrious career in magazine publishing encapsulates both the triumphs and challenges encountered in the rapidly evolving media landscape. Through his critical and creative contributions, he has left an indelible mark on the industry, transitioning elegantly from editor to cultural commentator and innovator. His ventures have not only engaged audiences but have also set trends within the magazine world. As Carter continues to navigate the boundaries of publishing in a new digital age, his insights and experiences remain relevant and inspirational.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What led Graydon Carter to pursue a career in magazines?
Graydon Carter was drawn to the world of magazines due to his passion for storytelling and journalism, which he developed even before leaving college.
Question: What notable magazine did Graydon Carter co-found?
Carter co-founded Spy magazine, which became famous for its satirical takes on New York’s elite and powerful figures.
Question: How has Graydon Carter adapted to changes in the media landscape?
After stepping down from Vanity Fair, Carter launched Air Mail, an email newsletter that reflects his ability to innovate and engage a global audience with curated content.
