When did you start to realise you didn't believe in God? Oh, as a teenager with the discovery of the beat poets. I fell for Ginsburg in a big way having read Howl in the sixth form and absolutely relished it. He studied English literature at Oxford University but only got a third class degree. W.I.J.O.D has had an evening war - he's played John Petchiman.
Over lunch in his house in Oxford, bestselling author Philip Pullman speaks to broadcaster Samira Ahmed about the moments of his childhood and youth that shaped and inspired his unique storytelling. This episode is part of our series How I Found My Voice, hosted by Samira Ahmed. If you like this episode do check out the entire series.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices