About the Author: https://www.cormacmccarthy.com/biography/
Born in 1933, Cormac McCarthy was a very successful novelist, playwright, screenwriter, etc. With his unique writing style that includes a lack of punctuation, many people say he is one of the greatest contemporary writers. In addition to No Country for Old Men (2005), his notable works include Suttree (1979), Blood Meridian (1985), All the Pretty Horses (1992), and The Road (2006).
Historical Context (The “War on Drugs”): https://www.history.com/topics/crime/the-war-on-drugs
The novel is set in 1980s Texas around the US/Mexico border. During this time period, there was huge increase in drug activity in this area along the border. This novel is takes place between President Richard Nixon’s declaration of the “War on drugs” (1971) and President Ronald Reagan’s expansion of the drug war (1980s). This article explains the “War on drugs” and how changed over time and how it impacted America.
The Film:
Along with the novel, the 2007 film of No Country for Old Men directed by Ethan and Joel Coen, was very successful. It won 76 awards at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival, two Golden Globes, and four Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Directors, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay. I attached the movie trailer below because I think it helps to put a face to the characters and it conveys the overall vibe or tone of the novel.
Great American Novels 2020 
This additional information on the novel really brings it to life! The point about the lack on punctuation in No Country for Old Men is very interesting, I didn’t really notice this style until I got further into the book. I think it’s effective in adding to McCarthy’s unique writing style and contributes to the contemporary feel of the novel.
LikeLike