Oil!

In Oil!, we follow the journey of James Arnold Ross, affectionately known as Dad, and his son, James Jr., fondly called Bunny. This captivating tale, inspired by the real-life figure Edward L. Doheny and set against the backdrop of World War I, delves into the tumultuous events reminiscent of the Teapot Dome Oil Scandal during the Harding administration. Like many of Upton Sinclair’s works, it explores profound themes of social conflict, the struggles between labor and management, the clash of democracy and socialism, and the moral dilemmas of life. As Bunny navigates his complex relationship with his father—a successful oil magnate and millionaire—he grapples with profound questions of ethics and truth. Over the decades, from youth to soldier, college student to affluent oil producer, Bunnys evolution is marked by a quest for meaning. The narrative also weaves in elements of faith as one character emerges as a charismatic evangelist preaching the third revelation. Notably, the acclaimed film There Will Be Blood draws heavily from this rich story. - Summary by Bob Rollins