What is Esquire magazine primarily known as?

Esquire magazine is primarily known as an American men's magazine.

Who currently publishes Esquire in the United States?

Esquire is currently published in the United States by Hearst Communications.

When was Esquire magazine first issued, and what was its origin?

Esquire magazine was first issued in October 1933. It originated as an offshoot of the trade magazine Apparel Arts, which later evolved into Gentleman's Quarterly. Esquire and GQ shared ownership for nearly 45 years.

Who were the founders of Esquire magazine, and what were their roles?

The founders of Esquire magazine were Arnold Gingrich, David A. Smart, and Henry L. Jackson. Gingrich specialized in publishing, Smart managed the business side, and Jackson led and edited the fashion section, which was a significant part of the magazine in its early years.

How did the political viewpoints of the founders influence the magazine's content?

The founders' differing political viewpoints, with Jackson holding Republican views and Smart holding liberal Democratic views, allowed the magazine to feature debates between the two perspectives, contributing to a diverse range of content.

What was the initial publication frequency and cost of Esquire?

Initially, Esquire was planned to have a quarterly press run of one hundred thousand copies, costing fifty cents per copy. However, due to high demand, it quickly transitioned to a more frequent publication schedule.

Which notable literary figures contributed to Esquire in its early years?

In its early years, Esquire featured contributions from prominent literary figures such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Alberto Moravia, André Gide, and Julian Huxley.

What was the nature of the controversy involving Esquire in the 1940s, and how was it resolved?

In the 1940s, Esquire faced controversy when U.S. Postmaster General Frank Comerford Walker initiated charges against the magazine, alleging it used the U.S. Postal Service to promote lewd images, particularly concerning the popular 'Petty Girls' and 'Vargas Girls' illustrations. The United States Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of Esquire in 1946, stating that its right to use the Postal Service was protected by the First Amendment.

Who were the prominent pin-up illustrators for Esquire during the mid-20th century?

George Petty and Alberto Vargas were prominent pin-up illustrators for Esquire. Petty illustrated for the magazine from 1933 to 1956, while Vargas was hired to replace him in 1940 and worked until 1946. Al Moore took over as the main pin-up illustrator in the 1950s.

Describe the 'Esky' character and its significance to Esquire magazine.

The 'Esky' character, a blond, pop-eyed, mustachioed figure created by cartoonists E. Simms Campbell and Sam Berman, appeared on nearly every Esquire front page for over 25 years. It was intended to represent the magazine's refined character and readership, initially depicted as figurines and later as a stylized face, eventually becoming a graphic element in the logo.

How did Harold Hayes's tenure as editor influence Esquire's content and direction?

Under Harold Hayes, who edited Esquire from 1961 to 1973, the magazine became a pioneer of the New Journalism movement. It published works by influential writers such as Norman Mailer, Tom Wolfe, and Gay Talese, and also experimented with audio content through 'Sound Tour' LPs in partnership with Verve Records.

What significant change occurred in Esquire's physical format in 1971?

In 1971, Esquire transitioned from its traditional large-magazine format (approximately 10 1/4 by 13 5/8 inches) to the smaller, standard letter size (8 1/2 by 11 inches).

What was the 'Esquire Fortnightly' experiment, and what was its outcome?

In 1978, Clay Felker, who had acquired the magazine in 1977, reinvented Esquire as a fortnightly publication titled 'Esquire Fortnightly'. This experiment proved unsuccessful, resulting in a loss of US$5 million by the end of the year, leading the magazine to revert to a monthly schedule.

Who acquired Esquire magazine in 1979, and what related publication was launched around that time?

In 1979, the 13-30 Corporation, a Tennessee-based publisher, acquired Esquire. Around this time, 'New York Woman' magazine was launched, serving as a spin-off aimed at a female audience.

When did Hearst Communications acquire Esquire magazine?

Hearst Communications acquired Esquire magazine in 1986, after the 13-30 Corporation (renamed Esquire Magazine Group) split up.

What challenges did Esquire face in the early 1990s, and how did David M. Granger address them?

Esquire faced a sustained decline in circulation in the early 1990s due to the rise of male-oriented lifestyle publications and general industry challenges. David M. Granger, appointed editor-in-chief in June 1997, revitalized the magazine by shifting its focus to lifestyle content, leading to numerous awards and critical acclaim, although it also drew criticism for its focus on 'metrosexual' culture.

Which notable writers and photographers have been associated with Esquire?

Esquire has been associated with numerous acclaimed writers, including Norman Mailer, Tom Wolfe, Gay Talese, Tim O'Brien, John Sack, Terry Southern, Tom Chiarella, Scott Raab, Mike Sager, Cal Fussman, Lisa Taddeo, and Tom Junod. Famous photographers who have worked for the magazine include Gleb Derujinsky and Richard Avedon.

What was 'The Big Black Book' published by Esquire?

'The Big Black Book' was a special style-focused issue launched by Esquire in September 2006. It was published twice a year from 2009 until the Spring/Summer issue in 2018.

How has Esquire's publication frequency changed in recent years?

In recent years, Esquire's publication frequency has changed. The June and July issues were merged in 2010, as were the December and January issues in 2015. By 2018, the magazine moved to publishing eight issues per year.

What was the 'Daily Endorsement Blog' launched by Esquire?

The 'Daily Endorsement Blog' was launched by Esquire in January 2009. Each day, the magazine's editors recommended something for readers' enjoyment, such as a breakthrough idea, product, or website, rather than a political candidate or party. The blog was discontinued in April 2011.

What was Gordon Lish's role at Esquire, and who were some of the authors he championed?

Gordon Lish served as the fiction editor for Esquire from 1969 to 1976 and was known as 'Captain Fiction'. He championed authors like Raymond Carver, encouraging his minimalist style, and also published the works of Richard Ford, T. Coraghessan Boyle, Barry Hannah, Cynthia Ozick, Reynolds Price, and William Harrison.

What was unique about the unsigned fiction piece published by Esquire in February 1977?

In February 1977, Esquire published an unsigned work of fiction titled 'For Rupert – with no promises'. This was the first time the magazine had published a story without identifying the author. Readers speculated it was written by J. D. Salinger, and Gordon Lish later admitted to attempting to emulate Salinger's voice and psychological circumstances in the story.

What was the 'Napkin Fiction Project' initiated by Esquire?

The 'Napkin Fiction Project' was launched by Esquire in 2007. The incoming fiction editor mailed cocktail napkins to writers across the country as a playful attempt to encourage short fiction. Notable writers like Rick Moody, Jonathan Ames, and Joshua Ferris participated, submitting nearly a hundred stories in return.

Describe the 'Dubious Achievement Awards' feature in Esquire.

The 'Dubious Achievement Awards' was an annual feature in Esquire that lampooned events of the preceding year. For many years, it famously included a photo of Richard Nixon laughing with the caption, 'Why is this man laughing?'. The feature was discontinued in 2008 but revived in January 2017.

What was the 'Sexiest Woman Alive' feature, and what criticisms did it face?

The 'Sexiest Woman Alive' was an annual feature in Esquire that ran from 2003 to 2015, showcasing a photoshoot and profile of a chosen woman. It evolved from the 'Women We Love' issue. The feature faced criticism for objectifying women, with critics arguing that the profiles used overly effusive and vague language that focused on appearance rather than substance, making men seem like 'drooling louts'.

Which actresses were named 'Sexiest Woman Alive' by Esquire and in what years?

Esquire named the following actresses as 'Sexiest Woman Alive': Angelina Jolie (2004), Jessica Biel (2005), Scarlett Johansson (2006), Charlize Theron (2007), Halle Berry (2008), Kate Beckinsale (2009), Minka Kelly (2010), Rihanna (2011), Mila Kunis (2012), Scarlett Johansson again (2013), Penélope Cruz (2014), and Emilia Clarke (2015).

What is the current number of international editions of Esquire?

Esquire currently operates 23 international editions.

Which countries currently have an Esquire edition listed in the provided text?

The text lists current Esquire editions in Australia (since 2023), Brazil (since 2025), Colombia (since 2025), Spain (since 2007), Germany (since 2019), Greece (since 2002), Hong Kong (since 2014), India (since 2024), Italy (since 2018), Japan (since 2015), Kazakhstan (since 2005), Korea (since 1995), Mexico/Latinoamérica (since 2008), Middle East (since 2009), Philippines (since 2011), Saudi Arabia (since 2021), Singapore (since 2023), Taiwan (since 2005), Thailand (since 2024), Türkiye (since 1993), UK (since 1991), Qatar (since 2022), and Vietnam (since 2025).

Which international editions of Esquire have ceased publication according to the text?

According to the text, the following international editions of Esquire have ceased publication: Bulgaria (launched 2014), Central America (launched 2008), Czech Republic (1996-2024), Indonesia (launched 2007, closed 2017), Malaysia (launched 2011), Netherlands (launched 1990, closed 2021), Poland (launched 2015, closed 2019), Puerto Rico (launched 2008), Romania (launched 2007), Russia (launched 2005, closed 2022), Serbia (launched 2013), South America (no dates provided), and Ukraine (launched 2012).

What is the significance of the 'Esquire Network' mentioned in the 'See also' section?

The 'Esquire Network' was a television network that was based on the magazine, but it has since ceased operations.

What was the circulation of Esquire magazine as of December 2020?

As of December 2020, Esquire magazine had a total circulation of 629,949.

Who is the current Editor-in-Chief of Esquire magazine?

Michael Sebastian is the current Editor-in-Chief of Esquire magazine.

What is the stated frequency of publication for Esquire magazine?

Esquire magazine is published six times a year, with issues typically designated as Winter; March; April/May; Summer; September; and October/November.

What is the ISSN number for Esquire magazine?

The ISSN number for Esquire magazine is 0194-9535.

What was the primary focus of Esquire magazine in its first fifteen years of publishing?

In its first fifteen years of publishing, the primary focus of Esquire magazine was the fashion section, which made up a significant portion of its content.

How did Esquire pioneer the New Journalism movement?

Under editor Harold Hayes from 1961 to 1973, Esquire became a prominent platform for the New Journalism movement by publishing works from influential writers who employed innovative narrative techniques and subjective perspectives in their reporting.

What was the purpose of the 'Sound Tour' LPs released by Esquire in the mid-1960s?

In the mid-1960s, Esquire partnered with Verve Records to release 'Sound Tour' vinyl LPs. These records provided advice and music intended for travelers exploring abroad.

What was the subject of Normand Poirier's article 'An American Atrocity' published in Esquire in August 1969?

Normand Poirier's article 'An American Atrocity', published in Esquire in August 1969, was one of the first reports detailing atrocities committed by American forces against Vietnamese civilians.

What was the criticism leveled against Esquire's 'Sexiest Woman Alive' feature by Slate magazine?

In a Slate article, Katy Waldman criticized Esquire's 'Sexiest Woman Alive' profiles, calling them part of an 'icky genre' that used 'rapt, creepy, overheated language' to say little about the subject beyond her beauty, ultimately making men appear as 'drooling louts'.

What is the official website address for Esquire magazine (US edition)?

The official website address for the US edition of Esquire magazine is www.esquire.com.

What is the OCLC number associated with Esquire magazine?

The OCLC number associated with Esquire magazine is 824603960.

How did Esquire's content evolve under David Granger's editorship starting in 1997?

Under David M. Granger, Esquire shifted towards a lifestyle-heavy publication. While it received numerous awards and published acclaimed writers, it also faced criticism for its focus on metrosexual culture. This direction marked a significant change from its previous literary and journalistic focus.

What was the 'Dubious Achievement Awards' running gag involving Richard Nixon?

A long-running gag in Esquire's 'Dubious Achievement Awards' featured an old photograph of Richard Nixon laughing, accompanied by the caption, 'Why is this man laughing?'. This gag was eventually retired in 2007.

What was the 'Elaine's' running gag in the Dubious Achievements of 1990?

The 'Dubious Achievements of 1990' edition featured a running gag where especially egregious achievements were headlined with 'And then they went to Elaine's.', referencing a popular New York City restaurant that later closed in 2011.

What prompted Esquire to endorse a presidential candidate for the first time in its history?

Esquire endorsed a presidential candidate for the first time in its 75-year history in its November 2008 issue, an event that inspired the concept for its 'Daily Endorsement Blog'.

What was the purpose of the 'Women We Love' issue, which preceded the 'Sexiest Woman Alive' feature?

The 'Women We Love' issue, which appeared yearly since 1988, served as a precursor to the 'Sexiest Woman Alive' feature. It was initially titled 'Woman of the Year' and was a section within the 'The Passions of Men' issue before evolving into its own distinct feature.

What is the relationship between Esquire and the defunct 'Esquire Network'?

The 'Esquire Network' was a television channel that was based on the magazine's brand and content, but it is no longer in operation.

Which company owns Esquire magazine?

Hearst Communications is the company that owns Esquire magazine.

What was the original name of the magazine from which Esquire originated?

Esquire originated as an offshoot of the trade magazine 'Apparel Arts'.

How did the magazine's physical size change in 1971?

In 1971, Esquire changed from its traditional large-magazine format to the smaller standard letter size.

What was the 'Esky' award mentioned in the text?

The 'Esky' award was a short-lived award given to popular rock bands during the 2000s, named after the magazine's mascot character.

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About Esquire

A Defining Men's Magazine

Esquire is a distinguished American men's magazine, currently published by Hearst Communications. Established in October 1933, it has evolved into a comprehensive lifestyle publication that delves into fashion, culture, politics, and literature, catering to a discerning male readership.

Global Reach

Beyond its influential US edition, Esquire maintains a significant international presence, with numerous editions published worldwide. This global footprint underscores its role as a tastemaker and cultural commentator across diverse markets.

Business and Operations

Founded by Arnold Gingrich, David A. Smart, and Henry L. Jackson, the magazine's early operations were based in Chicago before relocating to New York City. Over its extensive history, ownership has transitioned through various entities, ultimately landing with Hearst Communications, a major media conglomerate.

A Century of Influence: The History of Esquire

Genesis and Early Growth

Launched in October 1933 as an offshoot of the trade publication Apparel Arts, Esquire quickly distinguished itself. Initially focused on men's fashion and featuring contributions from literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, it captured the zeitgeist of its era. The magazine's early success was bolstered by its sophisticated content and accessible price point, even weathering the Great Depression and World War II.

Cultural Impact and New Journalism

During the 1960s and 1970s, under editors like Harold Hayes, Esquire became a vanguard of the "New Journalism" movement. It published groundbreaking work by influential writers such as Tom Wolfe, Norman Mailer, and Gay Talese, pushing the boundaries of narrative nonfiction. The magazine also became known for its distinctive large format and iconic features like the "Petty Girls" and "Vargas Girls" pin-ups, which, while popular, also led to a notable legal challenge regarding content standards.

1933: Founded by Arnold Gingrich, David A. Smart, and Henry L. Jackson.
1940s: Popularity of pin-up art; faced legal scrutiny over content, ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court in Hannegan v. Esquire, Inc. (1946).
1960s-70s: Became a hub for New Journalism, publishing seminal works by leading writers.
1971: Shifted from large format to standard letter size.
1977-1986: Underwent ownership changes, moving from Felker to 13-30 Corp, and finally to Hearst Communications.
1997: David M. Granger appointed Editor-in-Chief, revitalizing the magazine with a lifestyle focus and numerous awards.
2017: Revival of the "Dubious Achievement Awards" feature after a hiatus.

Evolution and Modernization

Throughout its history, Esquire has adapted to changing cultural landscapes and industry trends. It navigated periods of circulation decline by reinventing itself, notably under David M. Granger, who steered it towards a more lifestyle-oriented publication. Recent editorial directions have seen a return to a more classical style, alongside expanded political coverage, reflecting broader shifts in media consumption.

Editorial Excellence: Content and Features

Literary Contributions

Esquire has consistently championed literary talent. As fiction editor from 1969 to 1976, Gordon Lish, known as "Captain Fiction," significantly influenced emerging writers like Raymond Carver and Richard Ford. The magazine's "Napkin Fiction Project" further demonstrated its commitment to short fiction, featuring notable authors such as Rick Moody and Yiyun Li.

Innovative Features

The magazine is renowned for its distinctive features. The annual "Dubious Achievement Awards" humorously satirized the year's events, often featuring a running gag with Richard Nixon. More controversially, the "Sexiest Woman Alive" feature, running from 2003 to 2015, drew criticism for objectifying women, highlighting the magazine's evolving engagement with cultural norms.

Digital Presence

In the digital age, Esquire launched initiatives like the "Daily Endorsement Blog" in 2009, recommending daily items of interest. While this specific blog was discontinued, it reflects the magazine's ongoing efforts to engage with audiences across multiple platforms.

Signature Elements

The "Esky" Mascot

For over a quarter-century, the character "Esky," created by artists E. Simms Campbell and Sam Berman, graced nearly every Esquire front page. Initially depicted as figurines, his stylized face later appeared as the dot on the 'i' in the logo, symbolizing the magazine's refined character and readership.

Sound Tours

In the mid-1960s, Esquire collaborated with Verve Records to release a series of "Sound Tour" vinyl LPs. These unique offerings provided curated music and advice for travelers, blending editorial content with an auditory experience.

Awards and Recognition

Esquire has been recognized for its journalistic excellence, earning multiple National Magazine Awards. Its roster of award-winning staff writers and contributions from renowned photographers underscore its consistent quality and impact on the magazine industry.

Worldwide Editions

International Presence

Esquire operates numerous international editions, adapting its content to local markets while maintaining its core identity. These editions span continents, reflecting the magazine's global appeal and influence.

Esquire currently operates in the following regions:

Australia (since 2023)
Brazil (planned for 2025)
Colombia (relaunching 2025)
Spain (since 2007)
Germany (since 2019)
Greece (since 2002)
Hong Kong (since 2014)
India (since 2024)
Italy (since 2018)
Japan (since 2015)
Kazakhstan (since 2005)
Korea (since 1995)
Mexico/Latinoamérica (since 2008)
Middle East (since 2009)
Philippines (since 2023)
Saudi Arabia (since 2021)
Singapore (since 2023)
Taiwan (since 2005)
Thailand (relaunching 2024)
Turkey (since 1993)
United Kingdom (since 1991)
Qatar (since 2022)
Vietnam (planned for 2025)

Past editions have included Bulgaria, Central America, Czech Republic, Indonesia, Malaysia, Netherlands, Poland, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russia, Serbia, South America, and Ukraine.

Recognition and Accolades

National Magazine Awards

Esquire has consistently been recognized for its journalistic and editorial achievements, earning multiple accolades from the American Society of Magazine Editors (ASME) through the National Magazine Awards. These awards highlight the magazine's commitment to high-quality content across various categories.

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References

Carol Polsgrove, It Wasn't Pretty, Folks, But Didn't We Have Fun? Esquire in the Sixties (1995).

For a description of Lish's years at Esquire, see Carol Polsgrove, It Wasn't Pretty, Folks, But Didn't We Have Fun? Esquire in the Sixties (1995), pp. 239-249.

The Wall Street Journal (February 25, 1977).

A full list of references for this article are available at the Esquire (magazine) Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional editorial, publishing, or cultural analysis. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific insights.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Esquire: Chronicle of Modern Manhood

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About Esquire ℹ️

📰 A Defining Men's Magazine

🌍 Global Reach

💰 Business and Operations

A Century of Influence: The History of Esquire 📜

🚀 Genesis and Early Growth

🎨 Cultural Impact and New Journalism

🔄 Evolution and Modernization

Editorial Excellence: Content and Features ✍️

🖋️ Literary Contributions

💡 Innovative Features

🌐 Digital Presence

Signature Elements ✨

🌟 The "Esky" Mascot

🎶 Sound Tours

🏆 Awards and Recognition

Worldwide Editions 🌍

🗺️ International Presence

Recognition and Accolades 🏆

🏅 National Magazine Awards

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About Esquire

A Defining Men's Magazine

Global Reach

Business and Operations

A Century of Influence: The History of Esquire

Genesis and Early Growth

Cultural Impact and New Journalism

Evolution and Modernization

Editorial Excellence: Content and Features

Literary Contributions

Innovative Features

Digital Presence

Signature Elements

The "Esky" Mascot

Sound Tours

Awards and Recognition

Worldwide Editions

International Presence

Recognition and Accolades

National Magazine Awards

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice