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List of 15 authors like Hunter S Thompson

Hunter S. Thompson was known for his flamboyant writing style and the creation of Gonzo journalism, a style of reporting where reporters involve themselves in the action to such a degree that they become central figures of their stories.

Readers who enjoy Thompson's unique voice, cultural criticism, and irreverent approach might also appreciate the following authors, who offer their own distinctive perspectives and literary flair:

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    Tom Wolfe – Known for “The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test” and his participatory journalism, Wolfe is often associated with the New Journalism movement of the 1960s and 1970s, which shares similarities with Thompson's Gonzo style.
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    Charles Bukowski – With his gritty, raw, and often autobiographical writing in works like “Post Office” and “Ham on Rye,” Bukowski's style and disdain for the establishment might resonate with Thompson fans.
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    William S. Burroughs – A primary figure of the Beat Generation and a postmodernist author, Burroughs' “Naked Lunch” would appeal to those who like their narratives non-linear and their content edgy.
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    Jack Kerouac – Another Beat Generation icon, Kerouac's “On the Road” exemplifies a restless, improvisational spirit similar to Thompson's quest for the 'American Dream.'
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    Norman Mailer – An innovator of creative nonfiction, Mailer's works like “The Armies of the Night” provide a blend of journalism and storytelling with a strong personal voice.
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    Joan Didion – Didion's incisive analysis of American culture in books like “Slouching Towards Bethlehem” fits well with Thompson's critique of the American zeitgeist.
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    George Orwell – Although stylistically different, Orwell's sharp political commentary and exploration of power dynamics in works like “1984” and “Animal Farm” might appeal to Thompson's readers.
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    Ken Kesey – Best known for “One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest,” Kesey was instrumental in the psychedelic movement and shared Thompson's counter-cultural leanings.
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    Kurt Vonnegut – His satirical and darkly humorous novels like “Slaughterhouse-Five” explore themes that could interest those who appreciate Thompson's cynical worldview.
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    Robert Anton Wilson – Known for “The Illuminatus! Trilogy,” Wilson's writing blends satire, philosophy, and conspiracy theories in a manner akin to some of Thompson's more outlandish claims.
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    Chuck Palahniuk – Author of “Fight Club,” Palahniuk's exploration of societal norms and his critique of consumer culture echo some aspects of Thompson's work.
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    P.J. O'Rourke – A political satirist and journalist, O'Rourke's work can resemble Thompson's, with its irreverent take on politics and societal issues.
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    Carl Hiaasen – Hiaasen's novels often feature misfit characters and take a comical approach to expose corruption and environmental destruction in Florida, reminiscent of Thompson's social commentary.
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    Lester Bangs – Known for his music writing, Bangs' passionate, intense style and his place on the fringes of journalism line up with Thompson's Gonzo methodology.
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    Matt Taibbi – A contemporary journalist whose style has been influenced by Thompson, Taibbi tackles political and societal issues with a biting, satiric edge in works like “Griftopia.”

These authors vary in style and subject matter but share a kinship with Thompson's penchant for social critique and unconventional approaches to writing.