When it comes to the world of finance and Wall Street, there are a lot of names that come to mind. One of those names is Alexander, a central figure in Michael Lewis’ book “Liar’s Poker.” But who exactly is Alexander and why is he so important to the story?
First off, it’s important to understand the context of “Liar’s Poker.” The book was published in 1989 and is a memoir of Lewis’ time working as a bond salesman for Salomon Brothers during the 1980s. It takes readers inside the cutthroat world of Wall Street trading and provides a firsthand account of the greed, excess, and corruption that ran rampant during that time period.
Enter Alexander. In the book, he’s referred to as “the king of Salomon’s mortgage department” and is portrayed as one of the most powerful and influential people at the firm. He’s described as tall, imposing, and with a commanding presence that demands respect.
But what really sets Alexander apart from his colleagues is his ability to make money. Lots of it.
He’s one of the top earners at Salomon Brothers and his department consistently outperforms others on Wall Street. This success earns him a reputation as a genius trader who can read markets like no one else.
However, Alexander isn’t just known for his financial prowess. He’s also notorious for his temper and intimidating demeanor. He rules over his subordinates with an iron fist and isn’t afraid to yell or berate them if they don’t measure up to his expectations.
Despite this harsh treatment, many employees at Salomon Brothers idolize Alexander. They see him as a symbol of success and aspire to be like him one day. Lewis himself admits in the book that he was initially awed by Alexander before coming to see him as more complex than just an all-powerful figurehead.
So what happened to Alexander after “Liar’s Poker” was published? Well, it’s hard to say.
He’s never publicly commented on the book or his portrayal in it. Some reports suggest that he continued to work in finance for a few more years before retiring, while others claim that he left the industry altogether.
Regardless of what happened to Alexander, his legacy lives on through “Liar’s Poker.” He’s become a symbol of both the excesses and successes of Wall Street during the 1980s and remains a fascinating figure for those interested in finance and history.
In conclusion, Alexander is an important character in “Liar’s Poker” who represents both the good and bad aspects of Wall Street culture during the 1980s. His financial success and intimidating personality make him an unforgettable figure who continues to fascinate readers today.
