In the winter of 1965, writer Gay Talese embarked on a journey to Los Angeles with a singular mission: to craft a major profile on Frank Sinatra for Esquire magazine. What unfolded was not just an article but a masterpiece of literary nonfiction—a defining moment in the advent of New Journalism. Sinatra, battling a cold and surrounded by a protective entourage, refused to grant Talese an interview. Yet, Talese’s persistence and keen observational skills transformed this challenge into an opportunity. By immersing himself in Sinatra’s world—interviewing friends, associates, and even hangers-on—he captured the essence of the star without ever speaking to him directly.
As Talese famously wrote: “Sinatra with a cold is Picasso without paint, Ferrari without fuel—only worse. For the common cold robs Sinatra of that uninsurable jewel, his voice, cutting into the core of his confidence.” This line encapsulates the vulnerability of a man whose identity was inextricably linked to his artistry.
A Triumph of Storytelling and Visual Artistry
The illustrated edition of Frank Sinatra Has a Cold elevates Talese’s groundbreaking work by pairing it with archival notes, correspondence, and photographs from Phil Stern, the only photographer granted unprecedented access to Sinatra over four decades. Stern’s lens captures Sinatra in the recording studio, on film sets, and in candid moments, offering a visual narrative that complements Talese’s written portrait. Additional contributions from renowned photojournalists like John Bryson, John Dominis, and Terry O’Neill further enrich the collection, providing a multifaceted view of Sinatra’s life and legacy.
This edition also includes an introduction by Talese, reproductions of his manuscript pages, and personal correspondence, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of one of the most celebrated profiles in journalistic history.
The Visionaries Behind the Work
Phil Stern: The Photographer
Phil Stern (1919–2014) was a titan of photography during Hollywood’s golden age. His work graced the pages of Look, Life, and Collier’s, and he served as a “special photographer” on the sets of over 100 feature films, including classics like Some Like It Hot, West Side Story, and What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?. Stern’s ability to capture the raw, unfiltered moments of celebrities made his photographs an integral part of this project, providing a visual counterpoint to Talese’s written words.
Gay Talese: The Author
Gay Talese joined The New York Times in 1955 and spent a decade there before becoming a prolific contributor to magazines, most notably Esquire. His best-selling books, such as Thy Neighbor’s Wife, Honor Thy Father, and A Writer’s Life, cemented his reputation as a pioneer of New Journalism. Talese’s meticulous approach to storytelling, blending fact with narrative flair, set a new standard for profile writing.
The Enduring Legacy of Frank Sinatra Has a Cold
Frank Sinatra Has a Cold is more than a profile; it is a cultural artifact that captures the essence of an era. The article’s blend of literary depth and journalistic rigor redefined celebrity profiling, influencing generations of writers and journalists. By focusing on Sinatra’s cold—a seemingly mundane detail—Talese revealed the fragility beneath the star’s larger-than-life persona, offering readers a deeper understanding of the man behind the myth.
This illustrated edition, with its 250 pages of text and images, is a testament to the power of collaboration between writer and photographer. It invites readers to explore the intersection of literature, photography, and celebrity culture, making it a must-have for enthusiasts of American music, journalism, and the golden age of Hollywood.
Frank Sinatra in a reflective moment, captured by Phil Stern
A Masterpiece for the Ages
Frank Sinatra Has a Cold remains a cornerstone of New Journalism, celebrated for its innovative approach and enduring impact. Whether you are a fan of Sinatra, a student of journalism, or simply a lover of great storytelling, this edition offers a rich, immersive experience that transcends time. Dive into the world of Frank Sinatra and discover why this profile continues to captivate audiences decades after its publication. Explore the golden era of American music and journalism—one page at a time.