American author Joy Williams: ‘The comfy story has got to change’

The novelist and short story writer on her new book about Azrael, the angel of death, her encounters with Raymond Carver and Richard Yates, and why fiction should be uncannyJoy Williams, 80, has written five novels and four story collections and is the recipient of numerous awards. Her most recent book of short stories, Concerning the Future of Souls: 99 Stories of Azrael (Tuskar Rock), was published earlier this year. Her work ranges from the philosophical examination of being, belief and morality to urgent engagements with environmental catastrophe; James Salter wrote of her that she belongs in the company of Céline and Flannery O’Connor. Born in Massachusetts, she now lives in the Sonoran desert.An earlier collection of yours was called 99 Stories of God, and now you’ve moved on to Azrael (the angel of death and transporter of souls) as the subject. What drew you to him?I read in a WS Merwin collection his translation of Hadrian’s deathbed poem to his soul – Animula vagula blandula – so sorrowful and succinct. The soul, a worthy subject. And Azrael has always fascinated me: he was death, but not death exactly. He was more a gorgeous creation of Islam. I picture him as responsible for all the souls of this ensouled Earth. Continue reading... Continue reading at 'The Guardian'

[ The Guardian | 2024-10-19 17:00:20 UTC ]
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Canadian Author Catherine Mavrikakis at Frankfurt: ‘Serious Thinking’

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[ Publishing Perspectives | 2021-10-28 16:58:14 UTC ]
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The History Press lands 'enthralling account' of hidden war stories from Pearson

The History Press has landed an "enthralling account" of hidden war stories from Berlin-based university lecturer and cultural historian Joseph Pearson.  Continue reading at The Bookseller

[ The Bookseller | 2021-10-27 16:49:43 UTC ]
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Holding and Burrow shortlisted for William Hill Sports Book of the Year

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[ The Bookseller | 2021-10-27 16:44:38 UTC ]
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Owlet Press lands three mixed heritage stories

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[ The Bookseller | 2021-10-25 15:39:08 UTC ]
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Hodder Education removes textbook over question about Native Americans

Hodder Education has withdrawn a textbook questioning if the treatment of Native Americans has been exaggerated, following complaints.  Continue reading at The Bookseller

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The last time America broke apart: How author Kevin Boyle retold the 1960s

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The Best Story Arcs From Manga’s Golden Age

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Jerry Pinkney, children’s book illustrator who celebrated African American people and culture, dies at 81

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[ The Washington Post | 2021-10-22 13:28:42 UTC ]
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‘Dune’ has long divided the science fiction world. The new film won’t change that.

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