In his reflections, Gore Vidal recalls a comment he made years ago, suggesting that one should always seize opportunities for both sexual encounters and television appearances. This advice, made in a different era, captures a carefree attitude toward personal experiences and public exposure.

However, Vidal expresses a notable change in perspective due to the ongoing implications of the AIDS epidemic and the shift in media landscape, particularly with the emergence of sensationalist platforms like Fox News. This evolution highlights how societal issues can influence our choices and viewpoints over time.