012 - Ch 9

Dive into the captivating tale of Elmer Gantry, where a young, charming, yet morally bankrupt salesman finds himself swept up in the world of evangelism. As Gantry navigates the fervent revivalist circuit, he encounters Sister Sharon Falconer, an inspiring lay preacher, and Lulu Bains, an old acquaintance turned prostitute. This gripping novel delves deep into themes of hypocrisy, greed, and the seductive power of fame. A bestseller at its release, it also inspired a remarkable 1960 film featuring Burt Lancaster as the enigmatic Gantry. - Summary by William Jones