American writer Jay McInerney discusses his debut novel Bright Lights, Big City with James Naughtie and a group of readers.
Bright Lights, Big City not only cemented Jay McInerney as a superstar among debut novelists, but came to define the culture of 80s New York in all its gritty yet glamorous glory.
We follow the young unnamed narrator - he's 'You' throughout the book - during a whirlwind week in New York. He is bored with his job on a Manhattan magazine, wants to be a writer, and has been abandoned by his fashion-model wife. By night he roams the brightly lit streets of the city, hanging out in clubs and loft parties, powered by "Bolivian Marching Powder". By the time his crazy week is over the emptiness returns.
Presenter : James Naughtie Interviewed guest : Jay McInerney Producer : Dymphna Flynn
January's Bookclub choice : Capital by John Lanchester (2012).