Why does Didion consistently emphasize the tropical climate of Miami?

Didion's emphasis on the tropical climate of Miami serves as a type of pathetic fallacy -- the hot, sticky weather resembles the passionate, yet stifling atmosphere of Miami politics. Didion is also likely conscious of the fact that her readers may be unfamiliar with the unique environment of Miami and thus emphasizes the climate as a way to paint a realistic picture of her travels there and to add a stylistic element to this nonfiction book.

What does Didion mean when she says Havana 'vanities' come to dust in Miami? What vanities is she talking about?

Didion speaks of Havana 'vanities' because she recognizes that many of the exiles in Miami are not ordinary people, but rather people who occupied prominent political and cultural positions in Havana before emigrating. She mentions several examples, like Carlos Prío...