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Neil Gaiman on Terry Pratchett | JCCSF

JCCSF・70 minutes read

Neil Gaiman's latest book "Trigger Warning" sparks discussions about literature, trigger warnings, and the impact of books, challenging the need for safety and censorship in reading. Gaiman also shares anecdotes about his friendship with Terry Pratchett, recalling humorous and heartwarming moments from their collaborative writing process and personal interactions.

Insights

  • Neil Gaiman, a diverse author, collaborated with close friend Terry Pratchett on "Good Omens," showcasing their unique writing style and humor, while also delving into serious topics like Alzheimer's and the right to die.
  • Gaiman's "Trigger Warning" challenges literary norms by sparking discussions on trigger warnings, mature content, and the power of literature, questioning the need for safe spaces in reading and advocating for age-appropriate choices based on personal experiences.

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  • Who is Neil Gaiman?

    An author of various works, including comics and novels.

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Summary

00:00

Neil Gaiman: Prolific Author and Collaborator

  • Neil Gaiman is a prolific author of various works, including comics, novels, short stories, radio plays, screenplays, essays, poems, and song lyrics.
  • He is married to a rock star and sometimes performs with her.
  • Neil Gaiman's latest book is "Trigger Warning," his third collection of short fiction, which includes a never-before-published American God story.
  • Michael Chabon, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, is in conversation with Neil Gaiman at an event.
  • Neil Gaiman recalls his initial hesitation in interviewing friends on stage but now finds it enjoyable.
  • Neil Gaiman shares a humorous anecdote about his impromptu wedding ceremony at a friend's house.
  • The event takes a somber turn as Neil Gaiman and Michael Chabon discuss the passing of Terry Pratchett, a close friend and collaborator.
  • Neil Gaiman fondly remembers his friendship with Terry Pratchett, dating back 30 years, and their collaborative writing process.
  • Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett co-wrote "Good Omens" together, dividing characters and sections of the book.
  • Neil Gaiman shares an excerpt from "Good Omens," highlighting the humor and unique storytelling style of the book.

17:59

Polluted river, final delivery, heartwarming memory

  • The delivery man observes the polluted river, once beautiful, now covered in foam and sludge.
  • Geese land on the polluted water and sink without a trace, highlighting the river's degradation.
  • The man in white, named Chalky, receives a parcel from the delivery man, signing for it with a leaky pen.
  • Chalky opens the parcel to find a crown, which tarnishes and turns black when he wears it.
  • The delivery man contemplates the polluted river's beauty and the impact of progress.
  • The delivery man prepares to make his final delivery, leaving a note for his wife expressing love.
  • While crossing the road, the delivery man narrowly avoids being hit by a German truck.
  • Death appears to the delivery man, who accepts his fate and leaves behind a message for Chalky.
  • Neil Gaiman discusses Terry Pratchett's battle with Alzheimer's and his advocacy for the right to die.
  • Gaiman shares a heartwarming memory of Terry Pratchett seeking his help to recall a humorous moment from their past.

37:58

"British humor and genre blending in literature"

  • Terry delivered a fantastic performance available online on the BBC's Good Omens web pages.
  • British English silliness is evident in Terry's writing, akin to Douglas Adams' style.
  • Terry's humor relies on audience familiarity with cliches for lampooning.
  • Narrative voice in Terry's work, akin to Douglas Adams and PG Woodhouse, is humorously distinct.
  • Terry's Discworld novels often start with death, akin to PG Woodhouse's style.
  • Cultural era described as a mashup age, involving references and in-jokes.
  • Neil Gaiman discusses the concept of Confluence, blending genres and styles in writing.
  • Anecdote about a disastrous Fusion Cuisine experience with Pickled Peaches.
  • Gaiman reflects on the evolution of literature and the breaking down of genre barriers.
  • Gaiman's short story collection reflects a blend of themes and styles, contrary to initial perceptions.

55:43

"Trigger Warning" sparks debate on literature's impact.

  • "Trigger Warning" is on the New York Times list in week five, considered a real book.
  • The author emphasizes the title's aim to spark discussion and not dictate thoughts.
  • Trigger warnings online are praised for alerting viewers to potentially upsetting content.
  • The author questions the extension of trigger warnings to classic literature like Hamlet.
  • Differentiates between trigger warnings and mature reader recommendations.
  • Recounts personal experiences with disturbing content in childhood literature.
  • Considers the power and impact of literature, questioning if books should be safe.
  • Reflects on the necessity of life lacking trigger warnings.
  • Advises on age-appropriate reading choices based on personal experiences.
  • Describes the author's process of deciding which books to blurb, often based on chance discoveries.

01:12:32

"Author's struggles with blurb, sequels, bans"

  • The speaker recalls being asked to blurb a book by an author they admired, but found the book disappointing and struggled to write a positive blurb.
  • They express a desire to write sequels to their books but often get distracted by new ideas and projects.
  • The speaker mentions having ideas for sequels to "American Gods" and "Neverwhere," along with other stories set in the same worlds.
  • They discuss having books banned in various countries, including a graphic novel adaptation of "The Graveyard Book" being challenged in libraries.
  • The speaker recounts a controversial story they retold from the Bible in a comic book that almost led to a Swedish publisher being imprisoned.
  • They reflect on being banned in certain countries and the reactions of librarians and readers defending their work.
  • The speaker shares a story about reading a tale by RA Lafferty to an audience in Tulsa and discusses the writer's legacy.
  • They narrate a fictional story about a genie meeting a woman named Hazel who declines to make wishes, instead opting for tea and a walk in the park.
  • The genie and Hazel bond over hummus and a walk in the park, sharing stories about their pasts and enjoying each other's company.
  • The story ends with the genie and Hazel sitting on a bench in a park, enjoying the autumn weather and each other's company.

01:29:58

Contentment found in simple acts of kindness.

  • The protagonist meets a woman named Hazel who works as an illustrator of children's books and teaches life drawing at a Community College. Despite having a seemingly content life, Hazel expresses that she has everything she needs and doesn't wish for anything. The protagonist offers to grant her a wish, but Hazel only asks for help with simple tasks like raking leaves and cooking dinner. Over time, the protagonist moves in with Hazel, helping her with various chores and providing companionship. Eventually, Hazel asks the protagonist what they would wish for, to which they respond by embracing her, indicating that they are content with the current situation.
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