In most cases, corrupt politicians, drunken surgeons and rabid monkeys on the loose don’t mesh well.
However, when Carl Hiaasen steps into the room, the combination seems natural as he shares stories from his work as a best-selling author and award-winning columnist for the Miami Herald.
Speaking in front of about 350 people at Pugh Hall, Hiaasen discussed topics ranging from mundane statewide budget issues to bizarre legislation regarding romantic relations between men and goats.
Hiaasen noted how some people may perceive his style to be eccentric and cynical.
But he emphasized how his role is to make sure people in public positions are held accountable.
“When you start accepting weasely behavior...you’ve surrendered,” he said.
An alumnus of UF’s College of Journalism and Communications, Hiaasen spoke fondly of his time as a writer for the Alligator.
“It was a great time for political satire,” Hiaasen recalled. “You had Nixon, (Henry) Kissinger, John Mitchell...it was a parade of knuckleheads.”
Myra Eddy came to the show with her son, Thom, a graduate of the College of Journalism and Communications, and her grandson, James. She was entertained by Hiaasen’s dry humor and said she has read all of his books.
“It’s a little raunchy, but it makes me laugh out loud,” she said.
