One big scoop and a wedding -- Bitter winters and a lot of hockey -- A lineman for the railroad -- A college magazine to the rescue -- Candide in New York -- From Life to glorious days at Spy -- Interlude at The Observer -- My Vanity Fair education -- My advanced Vanity Fair education -- The great billionaire proprietor -- A monthly magazine in a daily world -- A charm offensive and the Oscar party -- Out part in Hollywood's big night -- Escape velocity, at last -- The writers were the franchise -- The smell of grease paint -- Meltdowns and valedictions -- Letter from admirers -- The long arm of the law -- The golden age begins to tarnish -- The south of France and one last swing at the bat -- Bonus round: Some rules for living

When the Going Was Good is Graydon Carter's vibrant memoir, sharing his journey to becoming one of the most influential editors in the media world. From his early days in Canada to working at notable publications like Time, Life, The New York Observer, and Spy, Carter's career flourished when he was brought in to run Vanity Fair by Condé Nast chairman Si Newhouse. With Newhouse's support, Carter had the freedom to shape the magazine, introducing iconic elements like Annie Leibovitz's photography and the "New Establishment" and Hollywood issues. He also cemented Vanity Fair's presence in Los Angeles with its famous Oscar party. The book is filled with colorful memories and personal insights into Carter's rise in the editorial world